This year we invite you to be curious and go a little deeper into the heritage, awareness, and pride months we honor in the United States. November is Homelessness Awareness Month.
Homelessness Awareness in Washington County
Homelessness affects a diverse range of people—families, individuals, youth, and seniors—for many reasons, with the lack of affordable housing being a primary driver. At Valley Outreach we support community members in need by offering essentials like food, clothing, and assistance in accessing social services. These resources help clients save money that can be directed toward housing. Additionally, we focus on preventing homelessness because regaining stable housing is often extremely challenging once it’s lost.
This Homelessness Awareness Month, we highlight local resources and share ways you may get involved in the vital work of preventing and ending homelessness. Awareness and understanding is the first step to solving the problem.
What Is Affordable Housing?
In Washington County, “affordable housing” generally means rental units where residents pay about 30% of their income on rent. Since this amount depends on income, people in lower-paying jobs often end up paying more than 30% of what they make. For example, to afford a $1,250 monthly rent while keeping it at 30% of income, someone would need to bring home about $4,000 per month. That works out to roughly $25 per hour after taxes, assuming a 40-hour work week.
Who Is at Risk?
In Washington County, nearly 50% of renters are described as cost-burdened households, meaning they pay more than 30% of their income to rent. Folks paying high rent in a cost-burned household are most at risk of experiencing homelessness due to a life change like a job loss, the death of a spouse, fleeing domestic violence, a disability or chronic health condition.
Understanding the Scope of Homelessness in Washington County
As of the most recent data available, Washington County, MN, has several hundred people experiencing homelessness. In 2023, the overall count for Minnesota was 10,522 individuals experiencing homelessness on a single night, according to the Wilder Foundation. Of this statewide figure, a portion of those counted reside in Washington County, where efforts are ongoing to address housing instability and homelessness through local outreach and support services. Programs like the Homeless Outreach Services Team (HOST) provide resources for emergency shelter, eviction prevention, and access to housing support.
Washington County has a variety of resources for those facing housing instability. The Homeless Resources and Housing Information website provides a comprehensive guide to emergency shelters, housing programs, and support services in our area.
Local Resources and Organizations Making a Difference
- Washington County Resources
The county offers a selection of resources, including emergency shelter, rental assistance, and help with finding permanent housing. Accessing these resources early can help prevent homelessness for individuals and families experiencing housing insecurity. Explore the full range of options on Washington County’s website. - Corrie’s House
Corrie’s House is a dedicated nonprofit that serves youth in crisis by providing safe housing, mentorship, and supportive services. Youth homelessness is often hidden, with many teens couch-surfing or staying in unstable environments. - Heading Home Alliance
The Heading Home Alliance is a collaborative network working statewide to end homelessness. Through advocacy, resource coordination, and direct support, they strive to make homelessness rare, brief, and non-recurring in Minnesota. - Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans (MACV)
Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans (MACV) is a Veteran-focused nonprofit organization that provides services and supports to end Veteran homelessness in Minnesota.
Taking Action: How You Can Help
- 1. Volunteer or Donate
At Valley Outreach, volunteers are essential to our work. By giving time or donating food, clothing, and household essentials, you help ensure community members receive the basics they need while they work toward stability. Consider volunteering with us or making a financial gift.
- 2. Advocate and Educate
Use your voice to advocate for policies that support affordable housing, mental health services, and employment opportunities.
- 3. Celebrate the New Emergency Housing Service Building
Attend the groundbreaking of this new and necessary facility!
Tuesday, November 12 at 2 p.m. at the Washington County Government Center (14949 62nd Street North, Stillwater, MN 55082).
Working Together for a Community Where Everyone Has a Home
Preventing homelessness is a community-wide effort. When we support the community, we create a foundation for a more compassionate, resilient, and inclusive Washington County.
If you or someone you know is in need of housing assistance, share this post with them. They are not alone, and resources may be available. Together, we can build a community where everyone has the stability and support, they need to thrive.
Read all the Valley Outreach Be Curious posts here.
