Center receives Blosser grant to help with renovation
The Charles H. and Isabell Blosser Foundation of Concordia has awarded a $8,357 grant to Neighbor to Neighbor to add awnings to the front of the building and repair its back wall.
Bob Steimel, representing the Community Foundation for Cloud County which administers the Blosser Foundation grants, presented the check on Friday afternoon to the sisters who operate the downtown women’s center.
In December, the Sisters of St. Joseph of Concordia began a renovation project at Neighbor to Neighbor that will double its size by turning the second floor of the 122-year-old building at 103 W. Sixth St. into usable space. Employees of the sisters have been at work all winter and hope to have the project finished this spring.
When construction began, so did a fundraising campaign to pay for the renovation. Neighbor to Neighbor has received grants from the Sunflower Foundation, Kansas Health Foundation, Catholic Charities, Orscheln Foundation and the Community Foundation for Cloud County. A special appeal letter for the renovation also went out, and it has generated more than $32,000.
But the awnings and repair work to the back wall were not covered by any of those funds. That’s why the Blosser Foundation grant was needed, according to Sister Jean Rosemarynoski, the congregation’s development director.
Congratulations to the Neighbor to Neighbor program. What a wonderful thing that you all have done for the many people of Cloud County. A lot of hard work and time has gone into this project. A big thank you also needs to go to the Blosser’s for their generous donation. They have done so much to help the people of Concordia.
You all have done a marvelous job with the Center. If we can do anything to help with your programs or clients, let us know!
How wonderful………congrats on the donation but especially on the great work that you are doing at Neighbor to Neighbor!
We have had such wonderful support from the community, and beyond. I am happy the renovations can continue, and the benefits will flow to many, giving strength and hope to all who call Concordia home.
Thanks local organizations and our very supportive civic community!!!
Great news for all of our “neighbors”.