Harvard Ranch for Seniors at 820 W Metzen St in Harvard, IL, served seniors with independent living, assisted living, and memory care options before closing permanently. The building had 23 apartments, all on one floor, so folks didn't have to worry about stairs, and the apartments came with central air, stove, fridge, gas heat and cooking, and all utilities like heat and gas included. Residents had easy access to wheelchair accessible showers, and the place was open to those 60 and older with income limits below $32,000 per year, so it targeted moderate and lower income seniors. It ran as a LIHTC property, which meant at least 40% of units were set aside for folks at or below 60% of Area Median Income, and the property accepted Housing Choice Vouchers. While some apartments offered rental assistance, the property didn't participate in project-based rent subsidies, so it tended to have a shorter or no waiting list.
The community allowed pets, welcoming cats and dogs up to 40 pounds, and had smoke-friendly indoor and outdoor areas. Residents could take part in group games, educational workshops, arts and crafts, and even art classes, with both on-site and off-site activities. There were devotional services right on the property, guest meals, beauty and barber services, and trips to local parks, cafes, and doctors' offices. An activity room, indoor lounges, and common areas helped people socialize, and there was free resident parking and easy public transit access for those who needed it. The staff was trained to help with daily needs like bathing, dressing, and medication, and there was hospice and respite care for those times when extra support was necessary. Apartments suited active, healthy seniors who wanted less hassle and more community, getting rid of chores and maintenance, and aiming to keep folks as independent and comfortable as possible. Nearby towns in the network included places like Woodstock Commons Apartments and Arbor Village of Geneva Crossing, and the site offered help for family caregivers choosing the right community, with tools like a free website consultation and access to local advisors. Harvard Ranch for Seniors earned a 4.6-star rating from reviewers and gave people a full and social life while meeting both daily needs and special care like memory support for those with dementia. But all things end, and this property is now permanently closed.
