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                                                                  EXHIBIT 99.1




FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
CONTACT:  GARY KASTEL, DIRECTOR OF CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS
(800) 236-3454

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

                       ALTERNATIVE LIVING SERVICES, INC.
                   WILL SELL $50 MILLION OF CONVERTIBLE DEBT

(Brookfield, WI -- May 14, 1997) -- Alternative Living Services, Inc.
(AMEX-ALI) announced today that it will sell $50 million of 7% convertible
subordinated debentures due 2004, at par value. The transaction is expected to
close May 21, 1997. The Company intends to use the net proceeds from this
offering to develop and construct new residences, to acquire additional
residences as appropriate opportunities arise and for general working capital
needs.

The debentures, which are non-callable for three years, will be convertible
into common stock at a rate of $20.25 per share. The shares will convert to
approximately 2,469,000 shares of common stock.

Neither the debentures or the common stock issuable upon conversion thereof
have been registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933.
Accordingly, these securities may not be offered or sold in the United States
or to any US person absent registration or an applicable exemption from the
registration requirements.

Alternative Living Services currently operates 88 residences, with an aggregate
capacity of 3,763, in 14 states. The Company offers four types of home-like
residential models, including Clare Bridge, a specially designed residence for
individuals with Alzheimer's disease and other dementias; Wynwood, an upscale
residence for the frail elderly; WovenHearts, a moderate income residence to
serve the frail elderly in smaller communities; and Crossings, an apartment
style residence. Alternative Living Services currently operates in Wisconsin,
Michigan, Minnesota, Florida, Pennsylvania, Oregon, Colorado, California,
Washington, Idaho, New Jersey, North Carolina, New York and Arizona, with
residences under construction and development in many of its existing markets
as well as in South Carolina and Delaware.

This announcement is neither an offer to sell nor a solicitation of an offer to
buy any of these securities.