Seeking emergency respite when you are the emergency respite

Thoughts on upcoming events from our Executive Director, Monica Nilsson

With the impending trials of four Minneapolis police officers following the death of George Floyd, the staff, shelter guests and residents of Haven Housing are preparing for feelings of uneasiness, trauma repetition, and a lack of safety, as well as a collective desire to build community and connection. The past year was challenging for all of us -but all of us didn't face the same burdens like racism, lack of environmental safety or social support.

When George Floyd was killed, the ensuing unrest, which blended with peaceful protest, disproportionately impacted those who could least afford it. Women and children at St. Anne's Family Shelter could step outside and watch the beloved neighborhood barber shop, Fade Factory, burn. The barber Trevon Ellis had cut the hair of kids from the shelter for free. Women at Ascension Place could smell the burning of the cafe at the end of the block. The grocery store closed. The public transit stopped. Staff wondered,  “To where do you move women and children to safety when with Haven is where they found it?”

While the private and public sectors debate the value in reinvesting in the people and communities that were most harmed, the board and staff of Haven Housing have spent the year identifying where we can invest in the months ahead. 

We start by investing time in listening to how communities of color. And listening to Haven Housing residents and staff communicating any feelings of concern or anxiety. While we are listening, we are taking other action. We are developing a 2021 plan, one that is focused with a lens towards antiracism. We are taking practical steps like investing in improved lighting and security systems to create a greater sense of peace at our properties. We are also going to have some fun.

While difficult moments will come again, so will joyful ones. We will commemorate 40 years of service in our programs, beginning with the opening of Ascension Place on March 1, 1981. While the continued need for programs to remedy homelessness is unfortunate 40 years later, we are joyful for the women and children who found and continue to find respite, connection and a path toward independence during their time with us. We are joyful about how so many in the public and private sector find value in supporting the hard work of our staff and program participants. In partnership with you, we will continue to provide a place of respite in our community.