Freeman Foundation and Preservation Trust of Vermont Award $50,000 Grant to Caplan’s Building and Northern Express Care St. Johnsbury

St. Johnsbury, Vermont – September 26, 2023 – Following the grand opening of the Caplan’s Building on August 10, 2023, Northern Express Care – St. Johnsbury was awarded a Preservation Grant to support the renovation of the iconic building. The Freeman Foundation, in partnership with the Preservation Trust of Vermont, has granted $50,000 to support the building’s remarkable historic preservation efforts. This recognition comes after the successful completion of the renovation, which maintained the original storefront facade and incorporated the building’s historic elements, including hardwood floors, vintage signage, and a captivating history wall in the reception area.
The recent renovation, assisted by the Preservation Grant, made possible by a partnership between the Freeman Foundation and the Preservation Trust of Vermont, has breathed new life into the Caplan’s Building. The meticulous preservation efforts have ensured the retention of its unique character while offering a modern, functional space.
“We are honored to have received this generous grant from the Freeman Foundation and Preservation Trust of Vermont,” said Chris Towne, Chief Operating Officer of Northern Counties Health Care. “This award underscores our commitment to preserving the historical fabric of St. Johnsbury while providing walk-in healthcare services.”
Northern Express Care – St. Johnsbury now calls the Caplan’s Building its home, marking a significant enhancement in healthcare accessibility for the local community. Additionally, the building is proud to host Catamount Arts as a temporary box office and downtown location for the Fried Family Gallery, ensuring access to artistic and creative experiences for the community.
The Freeman Foundation and Preservation Trust of Vermont’s support played a pivotal role in making this historic preservation effort a reality. Their dedication to preserving history and fostering community development is evident in the successful transformation of the Caplan’s Building.
The recent award acknowledges Northern Counties Health Care’s commitment to preserving the Caplan’s Building’s rich heritage and offering a vibrant space for both healthcare and the arts in St. Johnsbury.
About Northern Counties Health Care:
Northern Counties Health Care encompasses seven community health centers—including two walk-in primary care locations, three dental centers, and a certified home health care & hospice division providing a full spectrum of quality, affordable, and compassionate health care services to patients of all ages, throughout the Northeast Kingdom of Vermont. For more information, visit www.nchcvt.org. NCHC is supported by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of an award totaling $3,343,777 with 80% financed with non-governmental sources. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by HRSA, HHS, or the U.S. Government. For more information, please visit HRSA.gov.