Representative Robert R. Cupp (R), Ohio House District 4, visited Maple Crest Senior Living Village and Willow Ridge, Bluffton, on July 9.  Mennonite Home Communities of Ohio and LeadingAge Ohio invited Cupp for a tour and discussion on support for long-term care at the state level. 

Cupp, Susan Wallace, director of public affairs for LeadingAge Ohio; Laura Voth, CEO, Mennonite Home Communities of Ohio; and MHCO administrative staff discussed workforce issues, the State budget, Greenhouse Homes, and challenges facing the long-term care industry. 

Cupp also talked with residents and staff at Willow Ridge. “It’s like family,” said resident Richard Wiechart when describing the difference between a Green House Home and a traditional nursing facility.

“It is important for legislators to see first-hand the exceptional care our members provide to their communities,” said Wallace, “and we appreciate Rep. Cupp’s thoughtful approach to understanding the struggles they face, as well.”

LeadingAge Ohio is a non-profit trade association that represents approximately 400 long-term care organizations and hospices, as well as those providing ancillary health care and housing services, in more than 150 Ohio towns and cities.  The continuum of care reflected by the member organizations serves an estimated 400,000 elderly Ohioans annually and employs more than 35,000 persons statewide.