FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Lancaster, PA — Willow Valley Communities has again received a coveted “A” rating with a Stable Rating Outlook from Fitch Ratings, a leading provider of credit ratings, commentary, and research. Willow Valley Communities is one of the largest not-for-profit senior living communities in the country, serving approximately 2,400 residents in 1,600 residences and 500 supportive living accommodations.

Fitch Ratings, based in New York City and London, is the predominant debt rating agency in the senior living sector. The “A” rating communicates overall financial health to the residents who live at Willow Valley Communities, as well as to prospective residents, as they assess the organization’s strength.

Fitch stated in its analysis the ‘A’ rating reflects the expected future resilience of Willow Valley Communities’ financial profile. Willow Valley Communities’ strong business profile is characterized by strong revenue defensibility as a life plan Lifecare Type ‘A’ community provider. (Lifecare provides personal care, nursing care, or memory support, should it be needed, with no change to the resident’s monthly service fee because of the increased level of care.)

Fitch also reported several reasons why Willow Valley Communities continues to build and fill independent living expansion residences. Willow Valley Communities’ unique national draw, modest pricing relative to its higher end amenities, Type ‘A’ Lifecare contract, strong operating risk, and a history of solid operations and robust capital spending.

Fitch also noted that independent living occupancy at Willow Valley Communities has held up well through the coronavirus, while personal care and skilled nursing occupancies have been softer. However, the steady independent living demand combined with an adequate year for net entrance fee receipts and federal stimulus funding helped sustain Willow Valley Communities’ financial performance. Fitch’s forward look shows Willow Valley Communities maintaining its performance in 2021.

Responding to the news of the rating, John G. Swanson, Chief Executive Officer of Willow Valley Living, the management company for Willow Valley Communities, said, “Willow Valley Communities has enjoyed a long history of financial strength. We are proud of this affirmation by Fitch, which attests to the excellent operational performance and strong commitment to financial stewardship exhibited by our Leadership Team and Team Members, and to the astuteness of our Board of Directors, whose support and guidance inspire our achievements.”

View Willow Valley Communities’ press release in a downloadable PDF.