Admission and Fees
How long does the admission process usually take?
From initial contact with our Admissions Coordinator, our goal is no more than 2 to 3 weeks from start to finish. A thorough assessment of needs is important to ensure that an individual will be content living at Saint Francis and that staff will be able to support their level of care.
Does it cost a lot of money to live at Saint Francis?
We are a State of Virginia licensed facility that strives to be Metro Richmond’s affordable option for quality assisted-living care. Our mission is to serve those of limited financial means, so we welcome a number of Medicaid-eligible individuals who qualified for the Virginia Auxiliary Grant program, administered by the Department of Social Services. Additionally, our varied floor plans accommodate a wide range of private-pay rates and differing budgets. The Admission Coordinator is happy to provide tours of these options, as well as full explanations in easy-to-understand terms.
Our room-and-board rates, also called “all-inclusive rates,” reflect the total cost of care. The only extras are optional amenities, such as phone and cable services that are available at reasonable fees on a monthly basis.
Is there a minimum age for residents?
A. Yes. Today’s admission policy requires that an applicant be 65 years of age or older. Though earlier admission policies varied, currently the 65-year age minimum applies.
Do you accept the Auxiliary Grant?
Yes. Saint Francis accepts the Auxiliary Grant stipend as payment toward room and board.
Medical
Why do I have to go to my doctor for a physical prior to admission?
State regulations dictate that we, as a licensed care provider, receive a prospective resident’s current physical examination results and thorough history prior to admission. This information guides our professional medical staff in adhering to the physician’s orders and in closely monitoring the individual’s health. This policy benefits the resident, for up-to-date medical information helps maintain overall health and wellbeing for as long as possible.
May I keep my doctor if I move to Saint Francis?
Yes. However, Saint Francis also has several providers who come on campus to care for our residents.
Faith
Do I have to be Catholic to live or work at Saint Francis Manchester?
No. While resident care is based on the fundamental Catholic belief that human life is sacred and every person is precious, we do not discriminate or mandate standards based on religion, race, or national origin.
Do you have Mass? If so, is it open to the public?
Mass is scheduled at 4 p.m. every Wednesday afternoon. Visitors are welcome, as long as they register with the concierge at the Reception Desk.
What is the relationship between Saint Francis and the Catholic Diocese of Richmond?
Saint Francis was founded by the Catholic Diocese of Richmond in 1973. Most Reverend Barry C. Knestout, the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Richmond, is Corporation Sole and Chairman of the Board of Directors. The facility is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors that is appointed by the Bishop. Through the years, the campus was expanded to its current capacity through cooperative efforts between the Bishop and other supporters. Today, Saint Francis — Manchester continues to operate as an independent non-profit corporation. The Bishop actively embraces the mission of Saint Francis and includes it as a beneficiary in his Annual Diocesan Appeal as a means of sharing in the organization’s financial support.
Are there other Catholic senior-living facilities located in this Diocese?
In addition to Saint Francis—which was specifically established for seniors of limited financial means—the Diocese operates a number of other communities that offer various levels of senior care.
Funding and Donations
How is Saint Francis funded?
Approximately 60% of our revenue is derived from room-and-board rates, along with optional amenity fees. However, our mission is to serve those with limited financial means, so often residents are unable to pay the full (actual) costs associated with their care. As a result, Saint Francis continually seeks additional funds to help bridge the inherent funding gap. Charitable contributions are derived from individuals, corporations, foundations, congregations and other religious and civic organizations that share the non-profit’s mission and vision. The fundraising efforts of Saint Francis also include an annual benefit dinner in February, as well as an online Giving Day every October 4, during the Feast Day of Saint Francis of Assisi. An important source of support comes from individuals who leave a legacy gift in their passing as a part of their will or estate plan.
Do you accept in-kind donations?
Saint Francis is grateful for select, in-kind donations that are needed on an ongoing basis, such as grocery gift cards, adult disposable briefs, hand sanitizer, copy paper, and other office supplies. These gifts demonstrate a caring attitude toward residents while also keeping expenses down for the non-profit. With regard to gently used clothing, furniture, household items, and recreational donations, a phone call is appreciated to verify current needs and storage availability. If we cannot use a proposed donation at a given time, consider directing your donations to Thrifty Sisters, a curated thrift boutique that gifts all its proceeds to Saint Francis.
Is Saint Francis funded by the Diocese? If I make a donation to Saint Francis, does it funnel through the Diocese?
The Bishop of Richmond embraces the mission of Saint Francis and provides some funding toward its annual operating costs. However, gifts made directly to Saint Francis stay exclusively at Saint Francis for resident care.
Are donations tax-deductible?
Saint Francis — Manchester is a tax-exempt charitable organization as described in section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. As such, donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.