Sholom, Minnesota’s Jewish long-term care organization, has received a “historic” $8 million grant to invest in updating its operations and branding.
Over the next year and a half, the organization expects to roll out improvements ranging from tech infrastructure and resources for staff to some facility upgrades.
“This investment is about strengthening the future of care at Sholom,” said CEO Jim Newbrough in an email.
“By enhancing our clinical systems, technology, and community spaces, we’re giving our teams better tools to do their work and creating a more connected, responsive, and meaningful experience for the residents and families we serve,” he said.
The grant comes from the Sholom Foundation, a separate philanthropic entity that supports Sholom. The sizable investment comes as Sholom, like many long-term care organizations, has struggled with rising costs and cuts in federal and state support.
Over the past year, staff at Sholom took stock of the organization’s current and future needs and developed a plan for modernizing its operations. That plan led to the grant application for the foundation’s support.
“Our donors help bring our values to life in tangible ways,” said Etta Barry, president of the Sholom Foundation, in a press release. “Their generosity allows us to invest thoughtfully in the people, spaces, and systems that sustain our mission.”
While the $8 million grant is meant to support a range of improvements, there are few specific details about how the money will be spent and Sholom’s operations will change.
When asked by TC Jewfolk for more information, Sholom pointed to a new electronic health record system for residents.
“This will enhance care coordination, improve communication with healthcare partners, reduce the potential for errors, and allow our teams to spend more meaningful, uninterrupted time with residents,” Sholom said in an email.
Investments will also be made in communication tools and in streamlining operations.
“For residents and families, this means a more seamless, connected, and personalized experience where care feels more coordinated; communication is clearer, and daily life is enriched by a supportive, well-equipped environment,” Sholom said.
The upgrade initiative is being called “The Future of Sholom,” with a landing page on Sholom’s website to answer frequent questions and publish updates. Sholom will also host a public town hall about the upgrades on May 20.