Crow Wing County Adult Protection Team Raising Awareness This Month

The Crow Wing County Adult Protection Team is raising awareness for vulnerable adults in the area through a collaboration with local businesses.

The team provides public and professional education in the community, develops resources for prevention, intervention and treatment, and provides case consultation, which helps Social Services provide optimal adult protection.

In 2023, there were 672 reports of suspected abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation made to the county for adult protection, with neglect being the most common cause. The county says the ongoing problem has only gotten worse over the past year.

“By the end of July, we had 512 reports and it just, it does keep growing,” said program supervisor Morgan Althaus. “Somebody that’s experiencing self neglect might not have any other support systems in their circle. They might not have kids that are involved, they might not have a neighbor that’s willing to reach out, they might not have even the connection to service that they could very well be eligible for.

During September, residents can show their support for the team’s cause at local businesses. Through Monday the 23rd, donation cards can be purchased at Cub Foods in Brainerd and Baxter, Schaefer’s Foods in Nisswa, and Raferty’s Pizza in Brainerd.

More information on the Adult Protection Team can be found here.