St. John’s Community Care Receives Kenneth W. Olson Charitable Foundation Fund Grant
Albert Lea, MN – St. John’s Community Care is pleased to announce that it has received funding from the Kenneth W. Olson Charitable Foundation Fund, an affiliate of the Freeborn County Communities Foundation, to support Strengthening Healthy Aging in Freeborn County.
St. John’s Lutheran Community, doing business as St. John’s Community Care (SJCC), has served Albert Lea and Freeborn County since 1962. With a mission focused on compassionate care, dignity, and support, SJCC provides supportive services, and community-based programming that promotes independence and quality of life.
The grant will help reduce financial barriers to essential services for adults age 55 and older throughout Freeborn County. Funding will support a private-pay sliding fee scale for community-based services, including homemaking, transportation and errands, social engagement, wellness initiatives, and resource navigation.
“This funding allows us to make important services more accessible to older adults who may otherwise go without the support they need,” said Lauren Heskett, Population Health Coordinator at St. John’s Lutheran Community. “Our goal is to help people remain independent, connected, and supported in their homes and communities.”
St. John’s expanded its community-based programming over the past year through a grant they received in 2024, Connected Community of Freeborn County (CCFC). The organization also partners with healthcare providers, public health, volunteers, local organizations, and other community partners to address the changing needs of older adults.
The initiative is expected to increase access to supportive services, reduce social isolation, improve well-being and independence, strengthen community connections, and provide additional support for caregivers.
St. John’s Community Care is committed to sustaining these efforts beyond the grant period by pursuing additional funding opportunities, strengthening community partnerships, and expanding volunteer and collaborative programming.
“We are grateful to the Kenneth W. Olson Charitable Foundation Fund and the Freeborn County Communities Foundation for investing in the health and well-being of older adults in our community,” said Shanna Eckberg, Consultant at St. John’s Lutheran Community. “Together, we can continue building a community where older adults can live well, remain connected, and receive the support they need.”
Sincerely,
The St. John’s Community Care Team