Foster Grandparent Program Looking for Volunteers

December 22, 2022

The Foster Grandparent Program is looking for more volunteers!

The Senior volunteers of the Catholic Charities Central Minnesota Foster Grandparent Program provide meaningful, supportive relationships for children with special needs that enrich the lives of all involved.

Catholic Charities Central MN Foster Grandparent Program offers seniors, ages 55 and over, the opportunity to work with students in local schools, or other non-profit agencies with children who need extra assistance. Typically, school “Grandmas” and “Grandpas” work one-on-one with kids who need some extra support and love.

The Foster Grandparent Program is looking for more volunteers age 55+ to make a difference in the lives of children. We invite you to participate in this life changing program. Your involvement will positively benefit the lives of countless children and will undoubtedly improve the quality of your life as well, through the documented health benefits and assurance that your contributions to the community are immense. To learn more, please contact Sue Feliciano, Area Supervisor, at (320) 229-4589 or sue.feliciano@ccstcloud.org.

For Grandma Judy, getting involved in the Foster Grandparent Program was an easy decision. She believes, “Children are our future; we need to support them and their education.” Judy serves at Kimball Elementary and is simply awed by how the students’ faces light up when she comes into the classroom. She hopes others join the program to experience the joy of these smiling faces; “You will get back as much as you give.” 

“Grandma, you should quit your job and read to children!” This is what Grandma Luan heard from her granddaughter as she was getting ready to retire. So, when she saw an ad in the local paper about the AmeriCorps Seniors Foster Grandparent Program, she felt she had to learn more. “I love working with children and wanted to dedicate my time to making a difference in their lives.” Grandma Luan volunteers at Paynesville Elementary and is making a huge difference by helping students follow directions, learn to count, and of course, read!


Consider joining the Foster Grandparents Program today and visit ccstcloud.org to learn more!

Our Recent News

April 23, 2025
A Journey of Hope and Resilience
By Brittany Hoversten April 14, 2025
At Catholic Charities Emergency Services, we see countless acts of kindness every day, but a recent donation from a remarkable young man left a special mark on our hearts. On a chilly Friday afternoon, Bryce, a 17-year-old student at Albany High School, donated an impressive 860 pounds of squash. This generous gift highlights the power of community support, proving that even in challenging times, there is always hope. Bryce has grown his own pumpkins, squash, and gourds under the name Bryce Pumpkin’s, which has become known for fresh, locally grown produce. His efforts extend beyond growing, as he sells his harvest at farmers markets and even had a booth at the Made in Minnesota Expo in November, supporting local businesses and sustainable farming. What makes his story even more inspiring is how Bryce uses his success to give back. His donation will directly help families in need through our food shelf, which serves St. Cloud and surrounding areas. Bryce’s squash donation will be a vital part of our monthly food distribution, helping to provide nutritious meals to hundreds of families in our community. His gesture demonstrates not only a heart full of compassion but also the interconnectedness of local farmers, businesses, and families. When young people like Bryce step up, it’s a reminder that the future is well cared for. Bryce’s story proves that even small acts of kindness can grow into something truly transformative. Through donations like Bryce’s, we are able to provide food to those who need it most, including seniors on fixed incomes and single parents working multiple jobs. The connection between local farmers and organizations like Catholic Charities sustains our community and fosters hope for those struggling. Looking ahead to the upcoming growing season, we’re excited to see what other generous community members, like Bryce, will share. His efforts remind us that every small contribution adds up to something much bigger, and it’s not just about the food—we’re also strengthening our community and inspiring hope for all.
March 28, 2025
PACK THE PORCHES FOOD AND FUND DRIVE RECEIVED OVER 6,000 POUNDS OF FOOD AND MORE THAN $21,000