LEARN MORE ABOUT LA CROSSE LIGHTHOUSE – PEER RESPITE

La Crosse Lighthouse is a peer respite, voluntary program that provides community based, non-clinical crisis support to help people. They provide outreach, advocacy, and connection in a home-like environment where people seeking a self-directed path to recovery and wellness can do so with the support of people who have shared similar experiences.

Abigail Spanjers, Executive Director The La Crosse Lighthouse, joined the Morning Buzz to talk about what makes their programs unique and how the community can support their work:

It is not a treatment center, but a free, voluntary, short-term healing facility. Prevention or an alternative to hospitalization, La Crosse Lighthouse’s flexible environment supports those facing challenges. Guests can maintain daily routines while accessing personalized support with care and dignity.

To contact La Crosse Lighthouse, or connect with their warmline, call (608) 519-1489. Follow them on Facebook for updates.

Consider making a gift to help them reach more neighbors. Learn more and set up an online donation HERE.

Learn more about how you can help support The La Crosse Lighthouse over free breakfast at the Radisson on Tuesday at 7am. Sign-up HERE! This breakfast is more than a meal—it’s an opportunity to hear stories of transformation, connect with community leaders, and make a lasting impact through your generosity. Together, we’ll celebrate progress and invite you to join in shaping the future.

If you are unable to attend the breakfast, here’s more from La Crosse Lighthouse:

At The La Crosse Lighthouse, we offer more than support — we offer acceptance. Here, people on a self-directed journey of recovery and wellness can find connection, advocacy, and encouragement from others who have walked a similar path.

We dream of a community where no one feels alone in their struggles — where shared understanding leads to deeper healing and more fulfilling lives. We believe that when we support each other in recovery, we don’t just heal as individuals; we help restore families, strengthen communities, and uplift humanity as a whole.

Respite Stays
Our respite support is designed for individuals navigating mental health challenges, substance use recovery, or other life-interrupting events. Guests self-refer and stay at no cost, receiving:

• A private, lockable room
• Access to local and state wellness resources
• Peer support and conversations designed to explore breaking cycles
• Opportunities for groups and activities that foster connection and mutual support

This is a place to rest, heal, reconnect and discover — an alternative to hospitalization or a complement to clinical care.

Warmline Support
For those who simply need someone to talk to, our Warmline connects callers with a peer supporter who listens with empathy, shares understanding, and explores resources and recovery pathways together.

At The La Crosse Lighthouse, you’ll find a safe harbor — a place of hope, connection, and new beginnings. Together we can find our way.