SSM Health is giving $45,000 to the Blandine House Inc., a residential treatment facility for men struggling with alcohol and/or substance use addiction.
Blandine House Inc. is a non-profit facility and is governed by a board of directors who have volunteered their time, energy and guidance to continue to follow and expand upon the original vision of Sister Blandine to help alcoholics and addicts. In 2024, 58 men were treated.
“We know that so many more men could benefit from our services,” according to Julie Feilbach, executive director. “We are continuing to work on our second recovery house, and there are still many needs associated with that like furniture, appliances, household and bedding, along with funds to build a garage for lawn and snow care equipment.”
Work is also underway to transform the backyard into an outdoor patio and recreation space for clients. “It is important to keep them active and promoting healthy behaviors along with the fellowship of other recovering men in fun and productive ways,” Feilbach adds.
The donation recognizes that SSM Health understands the pain and devastation of addiction, as well as the emotional and mental illnesses that may be associated with it.
“Supporting men facing substance use addiction is crucial due to the significant societal impact of addiction, including health consequences, strained relationships, and economic burdens,” according to Bill Boyd, SSM Health St. Agnes Hospital vice president of operations. “Men are disproportionately affected by addiction and often face unique barriers to treatment, such as societal pressure to be strong and avoid vulnerability, which can hinder help-seeking behavior. Supporting men in recovery fosters healthier communities and allows individuals to reclaim their lives and contribute positively to society.”
To learn more, call the Blandine House at 920-922-9487 or visit blandinehouse.org.
In 2024, SSM Health Greater Fond du Lac’s community benefit ministry totaled more than $568,000 across the communities it serves. This investment helps ensure access to health care for patients who are uninsured or underinsured, train the next generation of health professionals to care for those in need, and fund programs to address the most pressing health needs of our communities.
Bill Boyd (left), SSM Health St. Agnes Hospital vice president of operations, and Laura Nakielski (center), SSM Health senior community health specialist, present a $45,000 donation to Julie Feilbach (right), Blandine House executive director.