LSS Awarded $1 Million to Reopen Libertas Treatment Center in Chippewa Falls
Lutheran Social Services of Wisconsin and Upper Michigan (LSS) will receive $1 million in state funding to renovate and reopen the L.E. Phillips Libertas Treatment Center in Chippewa Falls.
State Senator Jesse James (Left) and State Representative Clint Moses (Right) the two authors of the provision granting LSS $1 million. Courtesy: Facebook
The funding, a provision to the state budget authored by State Senator Jesse James (R-Thorp) and State Representative Clint Moses (R-Menomonie), follows the closure of major behavioral health facilities in the region, which left a significant gap in mental health and addiction treatment.
The new LSS-operated facility will offer 50 beds for medically monitored and transitional residential treatment.
“This grant is proof that strategic public-private partnerships can bring meaningful change to our communities,” said Héctor Colón, President and CEO of LSS. “Thanks to the leadership of Sen. Jesse James, Rep. Clint Moses, and all who supported this bill, LSS can help preserve and expand behavioral health and substance use treatment in the Chippewa Valley. These are much needed services for the community right now. LSS is ready to rise to the occasion.”
LSS Featured in Alcohol Awareness Coverage
In recognition of Alcohol Awareness Month, WEAU News in Eau Claire interviewed local health experts to raise awareness about the dangers of alcohol misuse and the importance of seeking help early. Brittany Nessel, Clinical Manager for LSS, was featured as a trusted voice on the topic.
LSS Clinical Manager Brittany Nessel. Courtesy: WEAU News
“Alcohol withdrawal is deadly,” said Nessel. “It’s the perfect time to have some of these conversations that are incredibly critical and can be awkward or uncomfortable.”
Nessel spoke to the stigma that still surrounds addiction, pointing out that nearly everyone knows someone who has struggled with substance use. She also emphasized that people don’t have to wait until they’re in crisis to get support.
“There’s a misconception that you need to hit rock bottom before seeking help,” she said. “But there are many forms of support available earlier – and if LSS doesn’t offer the right service, we’ll help you find one that fits.”
LSS provides addiction and recovery services throughout the state, supporting individuals at all stages of their journey. If you or someone you know is concerned about alcohol use, you don’t have to go it alone.
To watch the full report and interview with Brittany click here.
LSS’ plans to reopen L.E. Phillips Libertas facility move forward
CHIPPEWA FALLS, Wis. – February 5, 2025 – Last night, the Chippewa Falls City Council unanimously approved a special use permit for Lutheran Social Services of Wisconsin and Upper Michigan (LSS) to repurpose the former L.E. Phillips Libertas building as a facility for substance use disorder treatment.
L.E. Phillips was closed last year, and LSS saw a critical need in the community for substance use disorder treatment. LSS plans for the facility to offer a range of services similar to those currently offered at other LSS facilities in the area, and services similar to those formerly offered at L.E. Phillips Libertas.
LSS is calling on individuals, businesses, and philanthropic foundations who are passionate about supporting the community to join the effort. Contributions of any size are welcome, and naming opportunities will be available for major donors. Those interested in learning more should contact Paul Peterson, LSS Manager of Donor Advising who lives in the Eau Claire community at (262) 606-8993 or Paul.Peterson@lsswis.org.
LSS explores plans to acquire shuttered L.E. Phillips facility
For Immediate Release
LSS explores plans to acquire shuttered L.E. Phillips facility
The local non-profit seeks to expand services with new facility acquisition
EAU CLAIRE, Wis., DEC. 18, 2024 – An encouraging step toward addressing a critical need in substance use disorder treatment services for the Chippewa Valley, Lutheran Social Services of Wisconsin & Upper Michigan (LSS), a trusted provider in the area for nearly 40 years, has announced its desire to purchase the former L.E. Phillips facility.
“We are committed to meeting the urgent need for comprehensive SUD treatment in our community,” said LSS President & CEO Héctor Colón. “Acquiring this facility would allow us to expand our existing services while honoring the work that was previously done at this location. However, we can’t do this alone. We need the community’s support to make this dream a reality.”
LSS is calling on individuals, businesses, and philanthropic foundations who are passionate about supporting the community to join the effort. Contributions of any size are welcome, and naming opportunities will be available for major donors. Those interested in learning more should contact Paul Peterson, LSS Manager of Donor Advising who lives in the Eau Claire community at (262) 606-8993 or Paul.Peterson@lsswis.org.
“This is an extraordinary opportunity for our community to come together and reclaim a vital resource,” added Colón. “With your support, we can restore this facility and provide the critical care that so many individuals and families need.”
The organization plans to reopen the facility under its own name and operations, offering a blend of services similar to those previously provided and those already available through LSS’ existing programs. LSS’ expansion will help bridge the gap in treatment and recovery services, offering hope and healing to individuals and families in the area.
LSS’ current services and locations will continue to operate as usual. The acquisition of the facility will allow the organization to expand its reach and impact without disrupting its existing programs.
“This project represents a chance to grow our mission and better serve our neighbors,” said Colón. “It’s a privilege to be part of this effort, and we hope to make significant progress toward the purchase of the facility in the near future.”
ABOUT LSS
Lutheran Social Services of Wisconsin and Upper Michigan (LSS) is made up of nearly 700 professionals and peer specialists, the majority of whom are right in your community. Programs across our two-state reach address needs around housing, adoption, disabilities, refugee resettlement, mental health and substance use. LSS programs empower individuals to address life’s toughest challenges outside of a hospital or other institution. LSS’ expanded system of care offers short and long-term solutions for recovery, personal development, and independent living through safe, stable, and loving environments.
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MEDIA CONTACT
George Kmetty, Public Relations Specialist
George.Kmetty@lsswis.org
262-693-6825