West Central Initiative Distributes $360,000 in Grant Funds from the Otto Bremer Trust
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Seven local nonprofits received grants of up to $75,000
West Central Initiative was selected by the Otto Bremer Trust as a philanthropic intermediary partner to administer and distribute funds through its Community Responsive Fund.
“These dedicated organizations are meeting critical needs while also building long-term strength for our region,” said West Central Initiative Grants Officer Amanda Quam. “Our communities are fortunate to have such remarkable organizations working on behalf of children, families, and neighbors.”
Otto Bremer Community Responsive Fund Grant Recipients
- CCRI, Inc. (pictured) for sustaining the Positive Support Services program to assist individuals with disabilities in responding to challenges in safe and healthy ways and to teach parents and caregivers how to support individuals in building fulfilling, independent lives.
- Community Health Service, Inc. (CHSI) for improved electronic medical record software at the CHSI Moorhead site, which will allow dentists and primary care providers to easily access patients’ diagnoses, medication lists, and important medical information.
- Lake Region Healthcare Corporation for the Women’s and Children’s Department to provide essential, high-quality, compassionate maternity and pediatric care in rural Minnesota.
- Lakes and Prairies Community Action Partnership, Inc. (CAPLP) for the Flourishing Families Program to support families with young children in poverty through high-quality early education and intensive coaching for parents. The program aims to improve long-term family stability, physical health, and mental health.
- MAHUBE-OTWA Community Action Partnership, Inc. for Family Resource Centers to support families in rural areas through homework help, mental health resources, and other resources for upward mobility. Funding will support staffing, mental health events, and coordination with local organizations.
- Stevens Community Medical Center for two new infant warmers to allow easy access to infants while providing uninterrupted thermal support.
- West Central Minnesota Communities Action, Inc., for expanding hours for a mental health consultant and trauma-informed assistant teachers for Head Start, which offers health screenings, mental health support, nutrition, parenting education, and community connections to young children and their caregivers.
“The Otto Bremer Trust’s commitment to investing in our region has created a much-needed opportunity for our communities,” said Quam. “We’re grateful for their partnership and their confidence in us to help direct these funds where they will make the greatest difference.”
About Otto Bremer Trust
The Otto Bremer Trust is a private charitable trust based in St. Paul, Minnesota. Created in 1944 by business and community leader Otto Bremer, it is committed to supporting an enhanced quality of life for residents of Minnesota, Montana, North Dakota, and Wisconsin. Since its founding, Otto Bremer Trust has invested more than $1 billion in its region’s people, places, and opportunities.
Photo provided by CCRI, Inc.
About Ashley Quam