Allina Health Newsroom

Two new housing developments in southern Minnesota are helping individuals and families find greater stability, demonstrating how access to safe, affordable housing can support healthier communities. Allina Health joined other community organizations in supporting the projects in Faribault and Owatonna, by contributing $40,000 through its charitable giving program.

Allina Health supports many nonprofits throughout Minnesota and Wisconsin that are advancing our top community health priorities, including health-related social needs. Addressing even one social need, such as housing instability and limited access to affordable housing, can go a long way toward creating stronger, healthier communities for everyone.

On Sept. 23, the Community Action Center of Faribault, Minn. held a ribbon-cutting event to mark the opening of its Ridgeview Heights housing project. Ridgeview Heights consists of two homes with eight total units to support individuals and families experiencing housing instability.

Another southern Minnesota project is providing shelter and coordinated services in Owatonna. Oak Hills Community Connections opened its new $4 million shelter and multi-service complex this summer to help Steele County residents experiencing homelessness or displacement. Read more about this project in this Sept. 3 Minnesota Star Tribune article (subscription may be required).

Allina Health is proud to be among the local organizations supporting both projects. It contributed a $20,000 charitable gift in 2025 to the Faribault Ridgeview Heights housing project and $20,000 to Oak Hills Community Connections through two $10,000 gifts in 2025 and 2026.

“We know health starts long before a visit to the doctor,” said Jennifer Maurer, community engagement consultant with Allina Health. “By partnering with organizations that help people find safe housing, food, transportation and social connection, we can support individual well-being and build stronger communities.”

Learn more about how Allina Health’s charitable giving supports healthier communities here.

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