Winslow Gardens

The original concept of providing affordable living options for seniors was developed in the late 1960’s by an innovative group of entrepreneurs and dedicated United Methodists. The group of founders were dedicated to giving back to the community and motivated by the notion of providing quality affordable housing for low to moderate income seniors.

With this goal in mind, the founders raised the funds, constructed and opened Winslow Gardens Retirement Center, the first HUD 202 project in Rhode Island on April 1, 1971.

Since our early years, UMEC has desired to provide a continuum of senior living options. When the need arose, we expanded our services in 1996 with the addition of 25 units of affordable assisted living. The growing need for assisted living services became evident and UMEC responded by expanding assisted living services to encompass four of the ten floors of the original building. Today it still has fifty apartments offering Assisted Living.

Having both independent and assisted living in the same building allows a resident to stay in their home and keep their social circle yet receive the added services needed. Winslow Gardens’ communal spaces such as the library, sunroom, patio and dining room are shared by independent and assisted living residents alike. Likewise, the activities are open to all residents of the building.