LFS Launches Dana Village
Earlier this month, Lutheran Family Services, along with George Achola from Burlington Capital, the Mayor of Blair, Mindy Rupp, State Senator Ben Hansan, and Governor Jim Pillen welcomed a group of over 250 people as the ribbon was cut on the new Dana Village.
Dana Village is an innovative way to fight today’s grim statistics for young people who become homeless, pregnant, or incarcerated soon after leaving the foster care system. The Dana Village blueprint creates a life-long mentoring continuum from youth to seniors and solves issues along the social determinants of health – housing, employment, and physical and mental health.
The first step of LFS’s 10-year strategic plan is already in motion. Former Dana College dorm rooms will be transformed into apartments. The apartment rent is based on income, making it more affordable for kids transitioning from foster care to afford a safe place to live. In addition, the apartments will be available for low-income senior citizens.
Wrap-around Services for Dana Village Residents
In addition to offering an affordable place to live, LFS is working to provide wrap-around services to Dana Village residents. These will include:
- Financial Counseling
- Mental Health Services
- Life Skill Services
- Job Placement Assistance
Learn More and Get Involved
LFS is in the first stages of this project, and there are many opportunities to support us!
- To donate, contact Ed Shada at (402) 630-5664, [email protected].
- To join our mailing list, email [email protected].
- To learn more about living on campus, go to danavillageblair.com.
