SSM Health is giving $7,500 to Sigma of Fond du Lac, a non-profit women’s organization, to support its annual homeless students program.

Around the 2024 holidays, Sigma adopted 54 homeless students (an increase from 30 the year prior) at Fond du Lac High School, North Fond du Lac High School, and Campbellsport High School. Students receive care packages that include a water bottle, deodorant, hand lotion, chap stick, feminine hygiene products, and gift cards for food, gas, clothing and more.

This year, homeless students at Fond du Lac High School will receive a birthday card with a $10 food gift card.

In addition, last year, Sigma (with support from a previous SSM Health community benefit grant) provided elementary school students in Fond du Lac, North Fond du Lac and Campbellsport, with reusable water bottles, Kleenex, deodorant, and other supplies.

“We are dedicated to supporting a multitude of individuals, organizations, and community needs within Fond du Lac County with our time, talents, and fund-raising efforts,” according to Gretchen Jones, a Sigma member.

“It is our goal to never have to turn down requests as we have become a great resource for the vulnerable population,” Kathy Gravelle, a Sigma member adds. “This specific program aligns with our mission to address nutrition and physical activity, social determinants of health and mental health.”

Sigma’s efforts correlate with similar goals within SSM Health.

“Like Sigma, we’re committed to improving the lives and health of those living within the communities we serve, with special focus on the most pressing health needs identified in the area,” according to Shane Smith, SSM Health Fond du Lac Market president. “It’s important that we support opportunities to increase access to physical activity, chronic disease management, and increase access to food and other essential life needs.”

To learn more, visit sigmafdl.com.

In 2024, SSM Health’s local 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.

Shane Smith, SSM Health Fond du Lac Market president (center), Jodi Dietzel, SSM Health Fond du Lac Market administrator, and Melissa Hayes, SSM Health senior director – Human Resources, present a $7,500 donation to Sigma members (left to right) Deanna Deitte, Amy Marx, Jeana Schmitz, Kathy Gravelle, Diane Hinke and Julie LaBorde.