Two Chickens Cross The Road To Memory Care Facility In Tinley

TINLEY PARK, IL — Two chickens have crossed the road over to Porter Place, an Anthem memory care community in Tinley Park. In June, the memory care community welcomed the two hens, named Pepsi and Coke, according to a news release, which said the pair of hens has been bringing purpose and joy to residents.

Porter Place, located at 17833 S. Harlem Ave. Tinley Park, is a 4-acre memory care community with nearby access to local expressways, according to its website. It is a 66-apartment community with secure indoor and outdoor areas to provide safety for their residents.

Residents of Porter Place built a coop in the community’s courtyard, according to the release. The seniors devote time daily to caring for the chickens by gathering their eggs and exercising them by walking them with a special leash and halter.

Pepsi and Coke also eat organic treats made from vegetables residents grow in a Porter Place garden, according to the release.

"Most of us derive meaning and satisfaction from nurturing others and memory-impairment does not diminish the desire to do this," community relations director Bobbi Kelley said in a statement. "If anything, it becomes even more important. Pepsi and Coke have quickly become a vital part of daily life here, providing purpose and a great amount of fun. In fact, so much joy has been created that their presence is named the Happy Hen Program."

For more information, visit the website.