Align MPLS Winter 2024-25 Organizing Guide
Congregational Organizing is vital to the work Align Minneapolis does in addressing homelessness. Our Campaign Guide provides ample opportunity for values and beliefs to meet action and praxis. Whether directly serving someone experiencing homelessness or advocating for laws and policies that creates more affordable housing or better serves our unsheltered neighbors, each act of engagement either introduces, inculcates, or reinforces faith inspired values.
HOMELESSNESS PREVENTION: How short-term financial assistance can keep people in their homes and prevent homelessness
Preventing homelessness from occurring is a critical part of addressing homelessness. An estimated 60,000 households in Hennepin County are cost-burdened, meaning they pay 50% or more of their income to rent, so it’s not surprising that even a small financial crisis can lead to getting behind on rent and facing eviction. Homelessness Prevention not only stabilizes households in a moment of crisis, but mitigates potential domino effects of the trauma of facing housing court, having a court-ordered eviction, and not being able to find other housing due to having an eviction on record, as well as mitigating the cost and increased use of shelter and services. The Education section of the Winter Guide explores the Homelessness Prevention programs in the community, including a deep-dive into Align’s own Emergency Rental Assistance program.