Older Americans Month

May 17, 2023

Each year since 1963, the month of May has been set aside for the purpose of honoring our country's oldest Americans. This year's Older Americans Month theme is, "Aging Unbound", which offers an opportunity to explore diverse aging experiences. The goal is to promote flexible thinking about our aging – and how we all benefit from staying engaged and independent throughout our growth.

 

Volunteerism is a great way for us to stay engaged in our communities as we age. It’s a great way to meet other like-minded individuals, and to give back and make our communities a better place to live.

 

Here at the Central MN Foster Grandparent Program, our volunteers are giving back to their community and are remaining engaged by volunteering regularly at local schools and community-based non-profit programs as mentors and tutors to students. In 2022, 168 Foster Grandparent Volunteers served 78,370 hours, serving 7,557 students. 1,176 of those students were identified as having special or exceptional needs.

 

We often hear from our volunteers that being a part of the program gives them a great sense of purpose and how they look forward to their time in the classroom. Some of our volunteers have even stated, “I’m not sure who’s benefiting more, them or me”.

 

There are many opportunities in your community to stay involved. If working with and mentoring children is something that you think would help you give back and stay engaged, contact the Central MN Foster Grandparent Program today!

(320) 229-4589 or https://www.ccstcloud.org/services/community/foster-grandparents.

 


Our Recent News

By Jenna Pettit August 14, 2025
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By Jenna Pettit August 14, 2025
We are always honored to serve seniors like Gordon, whose story reminds us of the profound impact our Senior Dining program has on the lives of individuals in our community. Gordon, a widower of 58 years, currently lives with his son, but he continues to make the five-mile drive to the Senior Dining congregate site in Maple Lake every weekday. For Gordon, this is more than just a meal, it’s a chance to connect, stay healthy, and maintain his independence. "I can’t cook, and often I’m left eating Cheerios and coffee at night," Gordon shared. That’s where the Senior Dining program becomes so vital for him. The nutritious meals provided at Catholic Charities help him maintain a balanced diet and ensure he’s getting the nutrients he needs. While Gordon says, “You can’t please everyone all the time,” he enjoys the meals offered and values the healthy options available to him. But it’s not just about the food for Gordon. It’s the sense of community he experiences each day when he visits the Maple Lake site. Gordon enjoys visiting the other diners and the staff, who he calls "perfect" and insists they "do their jobs well." He appreciates the laughter, the warm welcome, and the connection with others that make each visit special. Catholic Charities Senior Dining Program serves seniors aged 60 and over, offering nutritious meals that help them stay healthy and independent. Whether it’s through congregate dining sites, or Meals on Wheels services, we are committed to providing seniors with the support they need to lead a healthy, independent life. Gordon is one of many seniors who rely on this program, and his continued dedication to attending every weekday demonstrates the importance of these services in maintaining his health and quality of life. He says he plans to keep coming as long as he’s able—a sentiment that reflects the value that Senior Dining brings to seniors in our community. We’re grateful for Gordon’s participation in our Senior Dining program and for the positive impact it has on his well-being. For Gordon and many others, it’s not just about the food, it’s about the connections, the care, and the opportunity to stay independent and healthy.
By Jenna Pettit August 14, 2025
If your garden is overflowing this summer, you’re not alone—and that’s a good thing. Whether it’s tomatoes, cucumbers, zucchini, or beans, your extra produce can do more than fill your pantry. It can help feed families right here in our community. Catholic Charities of St. Cloud is hosting a Grow & Give donation event, running now through October 2025. The idea is simple: if you’re growing a garden, consider growing a little extra—or sharing what you won’t use—and donate it to Catholic Charities Food Shelf. Fresh fruits and vegetables are always in high demand, and your homegrown produce can make a real difference for neighbors facing food insecurity. How to Donate 📍 Drop-off Location: Catholic Charities Food Shelf 157 Roosevelt Road, Suite 100, St. Cloud, MN (Use Door D) 🕘 Donation Hours: Monday through Thursday: 9 am to 3 pm Friday: 9 am to 12 pm 🔔 Please ring the buzzer at Door D during donation hours. Staff or volunteers will meet you at the door to accept your donation. For food safety, donations must be handed directly to staff—please do not leave produce unattended or drop off outside posted hours.