CentraCare to Transition Ownership of Three St. Benedict’s Communities Ecumen

(KNSI) — The CentraCare – St. Benedict’s Communities in St. Cloud, Sartell and Monticello will transition ownership to a nonprofit.

As part of the transfer of ownership process, a Letter of Intent (LOI) has been signed, and a formal purchase agreement is almost final, with a goal that CentraCare – St. Benedict’s Community will join Ecumen by late 2023.

Ecumen owns 31 senior living communities throughout Minnesota. They develop, provide and operate award-winning senior housing and care services.

The ball began rolling on the transition last fall when CentraCare shared a new vision for long-term care and senior housing in central Minnesota. President and CEO Dr. Ken Holmen says they looked far and wide for an organization that would continue to support the needs of the community but do it in a way that provides the best possible future options for residents. “Not only did we find that in Ecumen,” Dr. Holmen says, “but we also found a faith-based nonprofit that has a profound respect for St. Benedict’s Catholic identity and dedication to preserving and upholding its high standards and faith-based traditions.”

Holmen said the organization is “grateful for all the stakeholders involved in this process, including the St. Benedict’s Advisory Board, the office of the Bishop of the Diocese of Saint Cloud, The Prioress of the Saint Benedict’s Monastery, the Corporate Members, as well as the St. Cloud Hospital Advisory Board and the CentraCare Board.”

CentraCare also cited Ecumen’s outstanding reputation and “commitment to the tradition of the St. Benedict’s Community.”

Ecumen serves more than 27,000 people each year.

Shelley Kendrick, Ecumen president and CEO, says of the move, “We couldn’t be happier that we are bringing that mission of providing compassionate health care and innovative services to the greater St. Cloud area. We are eager to get to know the team members and residents here and to be part of this already vibrant community.”

Upon finalization of the sale, current CentraCare – St. Benedict’s positions will transition to new Ecumen ownership.

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