Expansion of Adult Day/IN Program to West County- Update

The need for Adult Day services in West County continues to grow. The entire industry struggles with long wait lists as capacity is limited by limited space and staffing struggles. Adult Day at the J is witnessing the impacts of these challenges as inquiry calls for both the senior and young adult programs continue to increase. Several individuals have heard word of the upcoming expansion at our Marilyn Fox Building and have already asked to be put on the wait list, even though it may be 2 years before opening.

There is an urgent need for services for young adults with disabilities and seniors with cognitive/physical concerns in the Chesterfield area. According to the recent Census Data, within 5 miles of the Marilyn Fox Building there are 21,767 individuals 65+, and 4,012 individuals with an intellectual or developmental disability. Currently, within 5 miles of the Marilyn Fox building there is only one licensed adult day program in Chesterfield (Garden View Center which has capacity for 25 people) and zero providers of Department of Mental Health (DMH) day services.

The Adult Day at the J Program (ADJ) at the Staenberg Family Complex in Creve Coeur is seen as the gold standard for Adult Day Services, and many families have stated that they would only feel comfortable sending their loved one to the J. However, due to the lengthy wait list, many of these families will be waiting for years and may not have the opportunity to benefit from all that the ADJ could provide for their loved one.

In addition to creating prime space for an addition location of our ADJ program, the project at our Marilyn Fox Building in Chesterfield will also include a total rehab and upgrade of the building. We are currently in the quiet phase of a capital campaign of approximately $11 million. To date $5.5 million has already have been committed.