Kandiyohi County approves $111,600 contract renewal for Lutheran Social Services' STAY program

The Kandiyohi County Board of Commissioners on June 2 approved a continuation contract to fund Lutheran Social Services' STAY independent-living program for youth.

Carly Crayons, a children's services supervisor, told the board the contract is a pass-through award hosted by Kandiyohi County and remains at $111,600 for the 2026–27 fiscal period. "This contract is a continuation of a pass-through fund that we received through an award letter," Crayons said, adding the county acts on behalf of neighboring counties to distribute funds to Lutheran Social Services.

Angie Modeski, director of youth services for Lutheran Social Services, described services supported by the contract. "Over the last year, 31 youth have been served through the STAY independent living skills case management," Modeski said, noting the participants were ages 14–22 and that 15 were from Kandiyohi County. The program provides individualized case management, independent-living skills groups, a resource center that offers basic needs and computer access, and drop-in supports to address immediate crises.

Commissioners asked how the funding reaches the county and what portion covers administrative costs. Crayons said the funds originate with the federal government, are routed through the state and then distributed to counties; she did not have an administrative-cost percentage available at the meeting and said staff are working to provide that figure.

The board moved and approved the contract. Chair Gardner thanked the presenters and encouraged commissioners to visit the resource center to see program operations firsthand.

The contract is intended to continue regional delivery of STAY services to youth preparing to leave foster care and those experiencing housing instability; board materials listed the program amount as $111,600 for 2026–27.