MONROE — SSM Health Monroe Hospital has announced a $40,000 donation to Family Promise of Green County in support of its A Place to Call Home campaign, an initiative expanding emergency and transitional housing for families in need across Green County.
Family Promise recently purchased the former Graceland Manor senior residential facility, which will be transformed into a multi-use housing campus offering emergency shelter, transitional units, and community spaces for families experiencing homelessness. The project will more than double Family Promise’s capacity, allowing more families and youth to access safe, stable housing and the support services they need to rebuild their lives.
“Access to safe, stable housing is one of the most critical factors affecting a person’s overall health and well-being,” said Jane Curran-Meuli, President of SSM Health Monroe Hospital & Clinics. “At SSM Health, we know that housing is health care, and supporting Family Promise’s expansion is a powerful way to help address housing in Green County. We are proud to invest in this project and in the families whose lives it will change.”
The $40,000 donation from SSM Health Monroe Hospital will directly sponsor the development of two outdoor playground spaces at the new residential campus. Special attention is being given to create spaces designed to support emotional development, physical activity, and social connection for families. Family Promise and Green County Leaders are collaborating to build a nature-based discovery play area featuring an outdoor block zone, mud kitchen, mini gardens, sand, and climbing elements. A second play zone will include ADA swings, spring toys, balance beams, and seating areas to encourage family interaction and inclusive play for children of all abilities.
“Family Promise of Green County sincerely appreciates the substantial $40,000 contribution from SSM Health,” shared Wendy Currie, Executive Director of Family Promise of Green County.
The donation comes at a time when housing remains one of the county’s most urgent challenges. Each month, Family Promise receives four to eight help requests from families in crisis. Since 2011, the organization has served more than 700 families to offer not only shelter but pathways to long-term stability and hope.
“Family Promise’s mission aligns closely with our commitment to improving community health and addressing the social determinants that influence well-being,” Curran-Meuli added. “This project represents both a tangible and lasting investment in the health of Green County.”
