Housing conditions in the late 1960’s were desperately in need of a genuinely livable solution. Seniors who were striving to live economically comfortable represented one of the most vulnerable segments of society. That provided the inspiration for Methodist pastor, Rev. Jerry Corlew, to create an affordable housing program specifically designed for the unique living conditions required by seniors.

Rev. Corlew recruited a passionate group of supporters and with a $1,500 grant launched Wesley Housing Corporation of Memphis, Inc. The goal was to provide quality affordable housing to those seniors with limited housing options. Rev. Corlew found the vision for this new organization in Matthew 25: 35-36, “when you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were doing it to me!”

Rents for the seniors in the Wesley Housing Corporation of Memphis, Inc. affordable housing retirement communities are subsidized by the Department of Housing and Urban Development or H.U.D. None of the monies designated for rent could be used for the welfare of the senior residents served. To complete the circle of ministry and care for the material and social needs of the growing number of residents served, Wesley Senior Ministries Foundation of Memphis, Inc. was created in 1997.