As Arizona continues to grapple with rising housing costs and growing demand for accessible living options, a unique partnership between healthcare providers is helping to bridge the gap between stable housing and overall well-being. The Housing is Healthcare Fund, created through collaboration among Arizona Medicaid Health Plans, announced $2.5 million in grants to support seven affordable housing developments across the state.
The grants will support housing projects in Gilbert, Glendale, Mesa, Phoenix, Prescott Valley, and Tucson, expanding access to safe, affordable homes for residents. The funding reflects a commitment among participating Medicaid Health Plans to address housing challenges affecting Arizona’s most vulnerable populations, including individuals and families eligible for the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS). Since its creation in 2020, the Housing is Healthcare Fund has distributed $14.8 million through 36 grants.
“Early in my career I saw how safe, stable housing could make the difference for an individual’s mental and physical health,” Chief Executive Officer of Mercy Care’s Tad Gary said. “As health plans, we learned that just paying for housing wouldn’t be enough; it was essential for all of us to work together to expand the availability of affordable housing for our members and communities.”
The fund itself represents a unified effort among organizations contracted through Arizona’s Medicaid program. Participating organizations include Arizona Complete Health-Complete Care Plan, Banner – University Family Care, Blue Cross Blue Shield Arizona Health Choice, Molina Healthcare of Arizona, Mercy Care, The NARBHA Institute, and UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Arizona. Each partner shares a commitment to investing in long-term housing solutions…