The Gundersen Health System Department of Social Services supports patients and families throughout our Tri-State region of Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Iowa during some of their most challenging. This support is provided in both the hospital and clinic settings. For some families, a medical situation can create unforeseen hardships which Social Services can offer assistance.  Gas cards, bus tokens or cab rides are given to patients or family members to offset the cost of frequent trips to our medical center.  Meal cards are provided to those who are here for an unexpected medical crisis.  Medication co-pays are covered for those who are in need of financial assistance. Rental fees for medical essentials such as toilet risers, crutches or walkers are also covered for those who are financially unable to cover these costs and would be unable to return to live in their homes without them.  
  
We are planning for our 13th Annual Gundersen Health System Chili Cook-off and Raffle Extravaganza to be held November 7, 2024 which helps to raise funds for the costs associated with these valuable services. Teams from throughout the organization gather for a friendly competition where attendees vote on their favorite chilis and their favorite themes/decorations associated with the chili entry!  The fee for attendees along with the funds raised by the raffle allow our social workers to provide patients and families with much needed assistance throughout the year.