Access to safe, stable and affordable housing plays a critical role in overall health and well-being. That's why SSM Health recently joined Madison Development Corporation (MDC) and community partners to celebrate the opening of The Bankston Apartments, a new workforce housing development in downtown Madison, Wisconsin.
Located at 429 W. Mifflin St., The Bankston Apartments brings 40 new housing units to Madison's downtown area, including 30 apartments reserved for households earning at or below 80% of Dane County's Area Median Income. The development was made possible through a partnership among MDC, SSM Health, Lake Ridge Bank and the Dane Workforce Housing Fund II.
For SSM Health, the project represents more than a new apartment building. It reflects the organization's ongoing commitment to community benefit and addressing the factors that influence health outside of traditional health care settings.
"Safe, stable housing is foundational to health, and we're proud to support a project that helps more individuals and families live close to where they work while strengthening the long-term vitality of our community," said Megan Timm, Regional Director of Community Health for SSM Health Wisconsin. "The Bankston represents what is possible when mission-driven organizations come together to invest in housing and community well-being."
Why housing matters for community health:
Health is shaped by much more than medical care. Factors such as housing, food access, transportation, education and economic stability all influence a person's ability to live a healthy life.
Housing stability in particular has been linked to better physical health, improved mental well-being, greater financial security and stronger community connections. When individuals and families have access to safe, affordable housing near jobs, schools, transportation and essential services, entire communities benefit.
Recognizing this connection, SSM Health supports housing initiatives through its impact investment strategy, which directs resources toward projects that generate both community benefit and positive social impact. These investments help address community needs while advancing long-term health and well-being.
The Bankston Apartments is one example of this work, but it is not the only one. SSM Health has supported housing initiatives in both urban and rural communities, recognizing that housing challenges affect communities of all sizes and that stable housing is essential to building healthier futures.
Investing in communities beyond healthcare.
Community benefit is central to SSM Health's Mission. In addition to providing care, SSM Health works alongside community organizations, nonprofits and local leaders to address needs identified through Community Health Needs Assessments.
These efforts support a wide range of priorities, including:
- Affordable and workforce housing
- Food security and nutrition
- Access to health care services
- Behavioral health resources
- Programs that promote economic stability and community well-being
By making strategic community investments, SSM Health helps create conditions that support health long before someone walks through the doors of a clinic, hospital or urgent care center.
Building healthier communities together.
The Bankston Apartments reflects the power of partnership and the importance of investing in solutions that address the root causes of health challenges.
Whether through housing initiatives, food security programs, access-to-care efforts or other community investments, SSM Health remains committed to improving the health and well-being of the communities it serves.
Our Community Benefit page offers more information on how SSM Health supports community health through community benefit programs, partnerships and impact investments.
