ST. PAUL – Local nursing homes have started to receive shares of the $300 million infusion in state funding Rep. Jeff Backer, R-Browns Valley, supported and the Legislature provided last May.
Backer said the funding is a step toward stabilizing Minnesota’s struggling long-term care industry, with nursing homes closing across the state and others on the financial brink. Families are waiting months and looking up to four hours away to find a safe place for loved ones, he said, indicating a worker shortage has left around 25 percent of nursing home caregiver jobs vacant.
“Nursing homes and long-term care facilities are critical for rural communities,” said Backer. “Not only do they provide compassionate care to families, but they also provide job opportunities for folks in our area. Unfortunately, many of these facilities have been struggling with inflation, higher operating costs, and a workforce shortage. This emergency funding will help bridge the gaps as we work this year to address the structural challenges facing long-term care and nursing homes.”
Funding for local care providers includes:
Barrett Care Center, Barrett:
- Total Payment: $385,661
- August 1, 2023: $192,830
- August 1, 2024: $192,830
St. Francis Home, Breckenridge:
- Total Payment: $546,321
- August 1, 2023: $273,161
- August 1, 2024: $273,161
Browns Valley Health Center, Browns Valley:
- Total Payment: $373,611
- August 1, 2023: $186,805
- August 1, 2024: $186,805
LB Broen Home, Fergus Falls:
- Total Payment: $522,222
- August 1, 2023: $261,111
- August 1, 2024: $261,111
Pioneer Care Center, Fergus Falls:
- Total Payment: $646,734
- August 1, 2023: $323,367
- August 1, 2024: $323,367
Pelican Valley Health Center, Pelican Rapids:
- Total Payment: $357,545
- August 1, 2023: $178,772
- August 1, 2024: $178,772
Traverse Care Center, Wheaton:
- Total Payment: $401,727
- August 1, 2023: $200,863
- August 1, 2024: $200,863
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