Senior Living Grants Dashboard

Grantee: Habitat for Humanity
Project: Aging in Place Roof Repair Program
Amount: $300,000.00 (over three years)
Date Approved: 6/20/2023
Year 2 Report Submitted: 6/30/2025

The Aging in Place Roof Repair Program was launched to support low-income senior citizens in St. Joseph County by repairing or replacing 66 roofs over three years (2023–2025). The goal is to help seniors remain safe in their homes as they age. The organization requested $100,000 annually to complete 18 projects in 2023, 22 in 2024, and 26 in 2025. The program aims to improve housing stability and quality of life for seniors, with success measured by the number of completed roofs, efficient use of funds, and positive feedback from participants.

At the time of report (June 2025) 32 total roofs have been completed, with two in progress and 22 applications under review. Although the 2024 goal of 22 roofs was not met (only 12 were completed), the program has had a meaningful impact. Resident feedback highlighted improvements in living conditions, reduced stress, and enhanced emotional well-being. Many expressed deep satisfaction with the repairs and professionalism of contractors. The program has also fostered strong community appreciation, with some residents going out of their way to thank crews personally.

The program faced several challenges, including increased costs and employee turnover, which contributed to the shortfall in completed projects. Additionally, limited funding restricts the ability to serve all seniors who apply. While seniors are encouraged to reapply, the demand often exceeds available resources. One minor issue involved a shingle installation, which resolved itself over time. Language barriers also occasionally impacted communication, though satisfaction remained high.

To meet the original goal of 66 total completed roofs during the grant period, the organization has taken strategic steps: allocating additional funding, increasing promotional efforts, and securing an additional roofing contractor. Fundraising efforts continue through social media, mail campaigns, and public events. The team remains committed to helping seniors age in place and will pursue further grant opportunities and partnerships with foundations, donors, and corporations that align with the mission. Resident surveys will help evaluate service quality and guide future improvements.

Grantee: LOGAN
Project: Senior Housing and Pathways Programming
Amount: $70,000.00
Date Approved: 6/18/2024
Final Report Submitted: 6/30/2025

LOGAN received funding to support three key areas for senior clients: renovating group and supported living homes, expanding Life Enrichment and Employment Pathways programming, and purchasing a wheelchair-accessible van. The project focused on housing upgrades, curriculum, and community outings, including painting, new furniture, HVAC systems, waterproofing, and accessibility improvements.

LOGAN enhanced housing, transportation, and engagement for 40 seniors with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Rising van costs led to budget adjustments, deferring some upgrades but enabling new ones like flooring at two homes. Renovations improved safety and comfort, especially at the Campeau home, and the new van ensured reliable access to medical care and activities.

Life Enrichment programming included attending a low-sensory musical and completing an ASL unit, boosting inclusion and peer connections. All planned improvements were completed and tracked through assessments and satisfaction surveys. The grant also unlocked $170,000 in additional funds through a matching opportunity.

Despite challenges like vehicle cost overruns and separating senior-specific expenses, LOGAN exceeded goals through budget flexibility and donations. Future enhancements will be supported by operational funding, Medicaid waivers, grants, and the 75th Anniversary Campaign, demonstrating the lasting impact of strategic investment and community support.

Grantee: Greencroft Communities Foundation
Project: Hamilton Grove Centennial Serenity Garden
Amount: $40,000.00
Date Approved: 6/20/2023
Final Report Submitted: 6/28/2024

To celebrate Hamilton Grove’s 100th anniversary, Greencroft Communities Foundation created an accessible garden and small park outside the healthcare wing. Designed for residents with varying mobility levels, the space features flowering trees, shrubs, benches, and shaded tables, offering a peaceful retreat for residents, visitors, and staff. Previously lacking such a space, Hamilton Grove now provides a park-like setting that encourages outdoor activity and social interaction. Studies show nature exposure reduces stress, loneliness, and depression in older adults, making the garden a valuable addition—especially for skilled nursing residents who spend much of their time indoors.

The garden took a year to complete due to seasonal constraints. Concrete was poured in October 2023, initial planting began in November, and furniture was installed by June 2024. Early use has shown residents and staff enjoying walks and outdoor time, with noticeable improvements in mood. The garden is now fully installed and fulfilling its purpose.

Fundraising was the biggest challenge. A planned gala was canceled, so funds were raised through direct appeals. A landscaping vendor offered services at cost. Nature also posed difficulties—hardened soil delayed planting, requiring professional tilling. Though they missed peak bloom season, the garden is thriving and expected to flourish next year.

Grantee: The Foundation of Saint Joseph Health System
Project: Senior-Focused Community Health Worker 2024-2025
Amount: $30,000.00
Date Approved: 6/18/2024
Final Report Submitted: 6/29/2025

Saint Joseph Health System’s Community Health Worker (CHW) program supports vulnerable seniors in St. Joseph County facing poverty, poor health, and limited access to resources. CHWs collaborate with providers to connect seniors to services, improve care coordination, and reduce isolation through targeted outreach and community engagement. For those with chronic conditions, CHWs offered health monitoring tools, MyChart training, and program enrollment like Meals on Wheels. They also addressed elder abuse by linking clients to protective services and helped five transition to safer housing. Of 276 patients at the time of report submission, 102 were seniors.

Program evaluation showed a 33.7% drop in ER visits during CHW intervention. Home visits and regular contact helped seniors manage health and social needs, preventing crises and hospitalizations. CHWs identified early warning signs and guided clients to outpatient care, enhancing outcomes and quality of life.

Funding remains a challenge due to limited reimbursement and complex eligibility. CHWs face emotionally demanding cases, leading to burnout. Despite this, they are valued team members, and the program’s success has drawn interest from other organizations. Efforts continue to secure grants and develop Medicaid billing. One case illustrates the program’s holistic approach: Two sisters missing appointments were found living with minimal resources. A CHW arranged furniture, transportation, and enrolled them in a comprehensive care program—demonstrating the program’s commitment to both immediate and long-term support.

Grantee: LOGAN
Project: Group Home Upgrades and Guardianship for LOGAN Seniors
Amount: $21,000.00
Date Approved: 6/20/2023
Final Report Submitted: 6/28/2024

LOGAN received funding to update furnishings in three Group Homes for clients over 65 and sponsored the vital work of their Protective Services caseworkers. The caseworkers, who advocate for 50 senior clients, addressed the higher rate of wear and tear on furniture in their group homes, which house eight clients each. The greatest need identified was upgrading dining room tables and chairs in two group homes with seniors. The grant also supported their protective services and guardianship caseworkers, ensuring seniors with Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities (IDD) could stay in familiar surroundings, even working with hospice for end-of-life support. Their caseworkers provided crucial advocacy, ensuring quality medical care and accompanying clients to appointments, especially important for seniors with IDD who might be overlooked by medical professionals.

This grant gave LOGAN the opportunity to update some of the furniture in their group homes, specifically Spruce and Walnut group homes. Both house seniors, and they were able to get a new dining room table and chairs for each. Spruce houses 8 individuals ranging in age between 32 and 67, while Walnut houses 7 individuals ranging in ages between 25-78. This grant also provided LOGAN the opportunity to fund vital and ongoing work of their Protective Services caseworkers, who continuously advocate for their most vulnerable clients with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including those considered as seniors.

Grantee: South Bend Heritage Foundation
Project: Aging in Place – Resident Life Program 2024-25
Amount: $10,000.00
Date Approved: 6/18/2024
Final Report Submitted: 7/1/2025

South Bend Heritage (SBH) supports low-income seniors in South Bend through its Aging in Place Resident Life Program, which promotes engagement, education, and socialization to preserve dignity and independence. SBH seeks funding to continue offering services that reduce isolation, improve health awareness, and stimulate cognitive activity for seniors living in SBH properties.

The program addresses challenges like limited mobility, healthcare access, and social isolation by connecting residents to wellness checks, meal programs, and local resources. It aims to engage at least 50% of residents (about 75 individuals) through activities tracked via headcounts, photos, and surveys. Feedback from property managers and residents helps refine programming to meet diverse needs.

This year, the program reached 48% of residents, despite losses from deaths and unit turnover. Participation remains a challenge due to mobility issues and personal preferences, but Resident Life Coordinators use empathy and peer encouragement to build trust and increase involvement.

With continued grant support, SBH remains committed to enriching senior lives. Highlights include outings for over 30 seniors to the zoo, Morris Performing Arts Center, and South Bend Cubs games—experiences that foster connection and community.