Funding from local foundations makes an impact on those experiencing homelessness
Local organizations and regional foundations are supporting St. John’s Ministries through grant funding. Those organizations help to provide safety, support, and shelter to neighbors experiencing homelessness or housing instability in Green Bay. In the 2023 calendar year, $194,264 has been awarded to St. John’s Ministries. Those dollars are supporting the Guest Grant Program, organizational operations, shelter meals and guest transportation.
Local foundations that have partnered with and supported St. John’s Ministries this year are Fox Cares Foundation, Kwik Trip, Resurrection Parish – Mission Outreach Committee, Greater Green Bay Community Foundation (Funds for a Greater Green Bay & The Women’s Fund), De Pere Christian Outreach, Schneider National, U.S. Venture/Schmidt Family Foundation, and Otto Bremer Trust.
The grants program, still in its infancy, got its start during the pandemic and has grown ever since. Since the beginning of the 2021-22 shelter season, St. John’s Ministries has received $423,922 in grant funding. Those dollars came from 17 different sources, all either local to northeast Wisconsin, or regionally in the Midwest.
“Growing the grants program has been an incredible opportunity and an exciting journey for everyone involved,” said Tony Schneider, St. John’s Ministries community engagement specialist. “To strengthen the organization by building relationships with community funders has been a team effort. I may oversee the grants process, but it is thanks to the staff that the services we offer are successful.”
The bulk of our services was provided to over 650 individuals during the coldest months (November to April). However, our team also operates the Micah Center and Wellspring, two daytime resource centers. At those locations forward moving workshops, programs, community resource referrals, and case management for 1,000 visitors annually are offered. The Summer Safe Sleep program shelters 80 to 100 of our most vulnerable guests from May through October. It is clear the work never truly ends, and the growing support from the community is always appreciated.
