Photos by Nordy Photography
“On any given night in Minnesota, there are approximately 250 veterans experiencing homelessness,” says Sofie Humphries, executive director of the Housing First Minnesota Foundation. “Our collective mission is to change that statistic and see veteran homelessness in Minnesota reach functional zero.” As part of this mission, the organization has started its “Housing for Heroes” initiative, which is consistently contributing to the overall goal of providing housing for 60-plus veterans and their families experiencing (or at risk of) homelessness. Humphries continues, “Every ‘Housing for Heroes’ project brings us closer to making this goal a reality.”
For each of these projects, Housing First partners with Twin Cities homebuilder Lennar and the Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans (MACV). The newest project in the program—a three-bedroom, single-family new-build home with an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) in North Minneapolis—marks significant progress in the creation of a “Veteran Village,” being the 12th home in the program thus far.
On Thursday, April 18, Housing First is hosting a ceremony to celebrate the groundbreaking of this project, as well as two other supportive homes in North Minneapolis. Owned by MACV, each of these homes provides veterans with stability and supportive services to transition into independent living. Jon Lovald, COO at MACV, says, “As we celebrate our 33rd anniversary, we continue to strive toward our vision of ensuring that every veteran in Minnesota has access to services to avoid homelessness and achieve sustainable housing.” In total, these three homes will offer 10 additional beds for veterans in need.
Hear from representatives of Housing First, Lennar, MACV, and more at the event: April 18, 1 p.m., 4230 Irving Ave. N, Minneapolis.
