THUNDER BAY — Michael Maunula says Lutheran Community Care's foundations may be faith-based, but the organization is "here to serve the entire community."
Maunula is the executive director of the Thunder Bay-based LCC.
On Monday the organization unveiled a new logo and slogan – Caring Services for Everyone – in conjunction with the announcement of the opening of its third location in the city.
It's on Victoria Avenue in the south core, and is aimed at providing supports for vulnerable young adults, in particular Indigenous people.
Maunula said that under a new marketing strategy, LCC is focusing more on community care with a broader outreach.
It aims to educate the public about the wide range of social and developmental services it offers to people of all faiths, cultures and backgrounds through its various locations.
Established in 1979, Lutheran Community Care's existing services include Street Reach, Adult Developmental Services, tenant support, and a mobile team to service complex needs related to mental health, addictions, homelessness or involvement with the law.
The new location will use a mobile integrated team including cultural wellness workers to engage with Indigenous young adults with serious mental health issues and developmental disabilities.
The site also includes laundry equipment, public computers and a kitchen to support daily living and skill development.
Maunula said the social and developmental needs of local people and communities are increasingly complex.
He said LCC is committed to delivering culturally-grounded and appropriate approaches to help individuals and families navigate the challenges of independent life.
"The new branding is intended to help us connect and reach more people at risk with messaging that emphasizes that we are open, inclusive, and welcoming," Maunula added.
Lutheran Community Care has offices on Bay Street and Van Norman Street in Thunder Bay, and also delivers services in Dryden, Marathon, Sault Ste. Marie and Sudbury.
