Saint Francis Ministries
Saint Francis Ministries announce they have received $118,300 in Community Service Program (CSP) Tax Credits through the Kansas Department of Commerce. The available tax credits will be used to enhance fundraising efforts for the Outdoor Playscape Project at SFM’s Salina West residential campus.
CSP is a popular program for Kansas nonprofits and public healthcare entities taking on major capital campaigns for projects involving children and family services, non-governmental crime prevention, youth apprenticeship and youth technical training and health care. Awarded nonprofits were chosen through a competitive application process. State tax credits reduce the total amount of taxes owed to the state. They are a way for taxpayers to substantially reduce the cost of contributing to Saint Francis Ministries.
"The Kansas Community Service Program tax credits provide a unique opportunity for donors to make a lasting investment in hope and healing for children across Kansas,” said Ginny Ellis, SFM Executive Director of Development. “We are grateful for the generous partners who have already stepped forward to support this transformative project and invite others to join us. Together, we can create a therapeutic outdoor space that promotes healing, resilience, and connection for youth with complex mental and behavioral health needs while maximizing the impact of every charitable dollar."
As one of only 10 PRTFs in Kansas, Salina West serves youth ages 6–18 with complex mental and behavioral health needs, providing trauma-informed, medically appropriate care. In the past five years, the program has served youth from more than 80 Kansas counties, making it a vital statewide resource.
The therapeutic playscape at Salina West will provide a safe, sensory-rich environment for youth with complex trauma, mental and behavioral health needs. Designed for safe, flexible use, it will feature multiple zones, play equipment, and sports courts that support emotional regulation, therapy goals, and social development. The playscape will strengthen clinical outcomes and family connections, offering Kansas’ most vulnerable children a healing, structured, and engaging outdoor space.
Businesses and individuals subject to Kansas income tax are eligible to receive a tax credit through this program. Donors giving at least $250 to the Outdoor Playscape Projectmay qualify for a50 percent tax credit. For example, a donor making a $1,000 gift receives a $500 tax credit when they file their state taxes, making the net cost to the donor only $500.
“CSP amplifies the mission of awarded community service organizations and their projects by encouraging donations through the benefit of state tax credits,” said Matt Godinez, Assistant Secretary of Quality Places.
“When you donate to an awarded CSP project, you have the opportunity to support a project and receive a state tax credit to reduce your taxable income.”If you or your business is interested in donating to Saint Francis Ministries’ Outdoor Playscape Project, please reach out to Ginny Ellis at Ginny.Ellis@st-francis.org.