Union Avenue Apartments, Housing For People With Disabilities, Opens

ORLAND PARK, IL — Orland Park officials joined Sertoma Centre staff to open a new supportive housing unit in the south suburbs.

The Union Avenue Apartments are located at 14205 South Union Street and open for residents with intellectual or other disabilities. Illinois Housing Development Authority and Housing Authority of Cook County officials were also at the grand opening April 19.

"Sertoma is committed to the personal success of the residents. Being able to offer on-site support services in an environment conducive to independent living is advantageous," said Gus van den Brink, executive director of Sertoma Centre. "The Orland Park location is ideal due to its proximity to stores, pharmacy, restaurants, parks, recreation facilities, public transportation and library."

According to Sertoma, housing websites received over 500 applications for the 16 available Union Avenue Apartment's units in September. Of those, all tenants had to be disabled and qualify for a housing choice voucher program.

All residents who will reside in the 13 one-bedroom and three two-bedroom apartments have proven they cannot live independently without support services.

Sertoma in Orland Park will operate identically to the Sertoma center in Homewood, which was opened in 2016. At both buildings, residents can attend counseling, job training and help with grocery shopping and bill pay.

Each apartment unit has private kitchen, bathroom and living space. Community patio areas and laundry rooms are located at the building. Many of the units are fully accessible.