A $100 million award from the United States Department of Veterans Affairs will enable the Chelsea Soldiers’ Home to replace its long term care facility. The Commonwealth will receive reimbursement of up to 65% of construction costs through this grant. The Baker-Polito Administration has obtained these funds for the facility’s reconstruction.
Governor Charlie Baker stated: “Today marks another milestone for the
redevelopment of the Chelsea Soldiers’ Home,” “It is our duty to care for those who stood up and served this nation, and our obligation
to ensure that their sacrifices are not forgotten. This funding allows us to
move forward in that commitment.”
Lt. Governor Karyn Polito remarked: “Receiving this grant demonstrates
Massachusetts’ strong relationship with veteran organizations on both the state
and federal level,” “This award helps
the Chelsea Soldiers’ Home continue its efforts in providing care to our
veterans with honor, dignity and respect.”
In May of 2017, Governor Baker unveiled the plans for the new long term care Community Living Center (CLC), followed by a groundbreaking ceremony in October of 2018. The existing facility will continue operating throughout the construction period. The new structure will feature 154 private rooms dedicated to veteran care. Completion of the project is expected in 2022.
Health and Human Services Secretary Marylou Sudders commented: “We appreciate the financial commitment and
collaboration with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs,” “We are building a state of
the art facility that will care for our nation’s heroes.”
Department of Veterans’ Services Secretary Francisco Ureña noted: “Massachusetts continues to lead the nation
in its care for Veterans. The VA’s grant helps us continue to care for our
elder population of Veterans throughout the Commonwealth,” “We’re looking forward to the
great things to come for the campus and its members.”
Since 1882, the Chelsea Soldiers’ Home has served Massachusetts veterans, providing Residential and Long Term Care programs to those who qualify. The facility’s campus includes Independent Living and Long Term Care services, currently supporting approximately 300 Massachusetts Veterans each day. With a workforce of 310 employees, the Soldiers’ Home in Chelsea is dedicated to delivering superior personal health care services to Massachusetts Veterans with Honor, Dignity, and Respect. The facility undergoes annual surveys by the Federal Department of Veterans Affairs (“VA”) and the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (“CMS”), and maintains full accreditation from The Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations.