Lutheran social services receives grant for $2,000

Lutheran social services received a grant for $2,000, for foster family programming events, during the Waseca Area Foundation’s annual awards banquet in November. Coordinator Candy Picka, who accepted the grant, said last year they received funds to start this program which helps gather foster families together to build community connections. Last year the group did a large Christmas holiday gathering/dinner for local foster families. In May, for National Foster Care Month, the group put together a carnival, including face painting, kids games, and a pizza party. More than 150 people attended. In August the group gathered current foster families and youth who have transitioned to independent living for a picnic in the park. These funds help gather these families together. “We are really building community connection,” Coordinator Picka said. “These funds help gather these families together. It’s great seeing these connections. This money helped start that. It’s great to be able to do that.”