Since 2008, The Link has served as a central hub for people in need living in and around New London, Minnesota.

The Link was originally established by the local ministerial association as a center coordinating resources for people in need. Since it was founded, the non-profit’s services have grown to include a food pantry, thrift store, household exchange program, meal program for kids, and a clothing resource program for children in foster care.  

As The Link began implementing more programs, staff determined they needed more space. They signed their lease for their current building in 2021, but staff later determined they wanted to purchase the building entirely. 

The Link purchased their building with the help of a $193,000 Congressionally Directed Spending Grant under USDA Rural Development’s Community Facilities Program. The Link Executive Director Ashely Hanson believes that owning the larger space will benefit them in the long run.

“The grant helped significantly with us being able to purchase the building outright, so we don’t have to make that monthly payment anymore,” Hanson said. “This allows us to put that money into our programs where it’s needed.”

USDA Rural Development Area Director Jeff VanBuren explained that purchasing the building helped The Link secure their future. As an owner, they can now modify and expand their business as they wish, opening the possibilities for any future needs they might have.

“They now know that this is their spot. They draw from such a large area, and it’s a very used service. I think knowing they can stay there is the big piece of it,” VanBuren said.

Hanson said that owning their own space has helped their programs run more smoothly.

“We are grateful for the opportunity for us to be able to pour that funding back into our programs instead of rent. It’s made a big impact on our community and the families in need,” Hanson said.

The Community Facilities Direct Loan and Grant Program provides affordable funding to develop essential community facilities in rural areas.