The Hmong Elder Program at First Lutheran Church brings together elders from primarily the east side of St. Paul and the surrounding neighborhoods. The program was started to help alleviate the isolation and depression that a great many of the Hmong Elder population suffer from. The program emphasizes socialization and maintaining and improving one’s health. The elders come together for a light breakfast and socializing, age-appropriate exercises, games, and crafts, occasional field trips, English language classes, a catered Asian lunch and a sharing of Hmong and American cultural activities. A Hmong nurse is available at least once a month to provide health education and blood pressure screening. Occasionally, guest speakers from the community come in and provide additional informational and learning opportunities for the elders.
The program meets every Monday at First Lutheran Church from 9:30 AM – 12:15 PM. The program is free and transportation is available.
The Hmong Elder Program is co-sponsored by First Lutheran Church and Southeast Asian Ministry. SeAM is a faith-based ministry serving as a catalyst to empower refugees and immigrants. It educates the public about immigration issues and provides services with compassion and excellence. Additional funding is provided by the Minnesota Eliminating Health Disparities Initiative Grant, the St. Paul Foundation and individual gifts and contributions.
For additional information or to register an elder for the program contact:
Dianne Anderson @ 651-774-8443 or bobdianne2@comcast.net
Douangta Vang Sitcler @ 651-293-1261 or douangtavangsitcler@msn.com
Southeast Asian Ministry @ 651-293-1261 or seam-stpaul@hotmail.com