Program areas at Keystone Community Services
Keystone Basic Needs programs help families address crisis and build foundational stability. Keystone's two food shelves, two Foodmobiles and food shelf home delivery comprise Ramsey County's largest food support network. In 2023, Keystone also provided free produce at 15 drive-through events.2023 Results: 51,068 unduplicated individuals received support from the food shelves, Foodmobile distributions, produce distribution events and home delivery program and we distributed 3.1 million pounds of nutritious food to families in need. Community support services helped 104 households/282 individuals access financial assistance and crisis resources, and helped 125 families/250 individuals apply for SNAP benefits. 1,851 community volunteers contributed 16,640 hours of service valued at $573,581.
Keystone Youth programs help children and youth develop the social-emotional, academic and employment skills to succeed at school and in the community. Keystone offers year-round afterschool programming for low-income youth at multiple sites: Community Kids at West 7th Community Center (K-gr. 10), the Teen Tutor program at McDonough Community Center (K-gr. 8) and the Best Buy Teen Tech Center (gr. 7-12). Keystone's Youth Employment and Training program provides work experience and career exploration for teens from low-income families. Youth employees are placed at Keystone's Express Bike Shop, Keystone program locations and outside companies.2023 Results: 279 youth participated in Keystone youth afterschool programs and 64 youth participated in Youth Express apprenticeships and/or employment training. 131 volunteers provided 746 hours of service valued at $25,715. Keystone's Youth and Family Support Specialist provides advocacy, resource connection and basic needs support for families of participating youth. In 2023, she assisted 60 families with referrals to 212 community resources.
Keystone Senior Services help older adults maintain health and independence while engaging in community life. Keystone provides a wide array of exercise, wellness, and social programs to help active seniors stay healthy, independent and connected. Keystone's neighborhood-based care managers work with seniors and caregivers to assess needs and coordinate needed services, including Meals on Wheels, Block Nurse services, housing stability, transportation, advocacy at doctor's appointments, and more. Keystone Case Managers provide service coordination and advocacy to help older adults and people with disabilities reach their goals and continue living in the community. These services help seniors "age in place" staying safe, healthy and independent. 2023 Results: 1,943 unduplicated individuals received senior program services in 2023. 736 seniors received In-Home Services including Meals on Wheels and other services. 477 seniors participated in social, recreational and other activities at our two community centers. 1,063 seniors and people with disabilities received case management services to remain living independently in the community. 141 volunteers contributed 5,547 hours of service to the senior program valued at $191,205.