Partners for Affordable Housing Guest Resource Packet

Partners for Affordable Housing Theresa House & Welcome Inn Shelters

Guest Resource Packet

Table of Contents

Blue Earth County Child Care Assistance

Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP): CCAP helps pay for child care so low-income families can work, job search, or attend school while moving towards self-sufficiency. CCAP helps pay for children up to age 12 and for children with special needs up to age 14.

There are 3 types of funding: o Families participating in Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP) o Families that had an MFIP case close within the last 12 months (TY) o Low-income families that may be eligible for the Basic Sliding Fee program (BSF)

How to get an Application: o Pick up an application at Blue Earth County Government Center or call and request materials at (507) 304-4162. o Visit ApplyMN: https://applymn.dhs.mn.gov/online-app-web/spring/public/process- login?execution=e1s1 to apply online. Please note that verification and additional forms will be required. o Print off an application (ask staff to print or go to the library)

Appeal Rights:

Families and/or providers who are adversely affected by a County agency's decisions can appeal by sending a letter indicating disagreement or using the Appeal to State Agency. Appeals must be sent within 30 days after the County sends you a notice of action. Forms and/or letters can be sent to: Minnesota Department of Human Services Attn: Appeals Office P.O. Box 64941

Note: Information Obtained from http://www.blueearthcountymn.gov/260/Child-Care-Assistance on 9/7/2018 PAH Housing Advocate 5

Counseling/Therapy Services:

Adult, Child, and Family Services, LLC. • Contact: (507) 387-3777 • Address: 1400 Madison Ave Suite 610 Mankato, MN 56001 • Website: www.acfsmankato.org ASC Psychological Clinic • Contact: (507) 345-4679 • Address: 12 Civic Center Plaza Suite #1615 Mankato, MN 56001 • Website: https://www.ascpsychological.com/ Associated Psychological Services, LTD • Contact: (507) 388-8114 • Address: 113 E. Hickory St. Mankato, MN 56001 • Website: www.http://apsmankato.com/home/ Blue Earth Mental Health Center • Contact: (507) 304-4319 • Address: 410 S. 5th St. Mankato, MN 56001 • Website: http://www.blueearthcountymn.gov/ Bonnie Lyn II, Mental Health Clinic • Contact: (507) 388-5801 • Address: 430 Patterson Ave. Mankato, MN 56001 Debbie Carstens • Contact: (507) 386-7318 • Address: 1008 S. Front St. Mankato, MN 56001

Counseling Services of Southern MN Contact: (507) 931-8040 Website: http://www.counseling-services.org/ • Mankato o Address: 226 N. Broad St. Mankato, MN 56001 • St. Peter o Address: 1306 Marshal St. St. Peter, MN 56082 • Le Sueur o Address: 760 S. Elmwood Ave. Le Sueur, MN 56058 Journeys Toward Healing Counseling Center • Contact: (507) 386-7121 • Address: 915 S. Front St. Mankato, MN 56001 • Website: www.jthcc.org Lutheran Social Services Contact: (507) 625-7660 Website: www.lssmn.org • Mankato o Address: 710 S. 2nd St Mankato, MN 56001 • Waseca o Address: St. John’s Lutheran Church 401 Third Ave. N.E. Waseca, MN 56093 • Faribault o Address: Our Savior’s Lutheran Church 1207 Prairie Ave. S.W. Faribault, MN 55021 Mankato Clinic Psychiatry • Contact: (507) 387-3195 • Address: 1400 Madison Ave Suite #352 Mankato, MN 56001

Mankato Psychology Clinic • Contact: (507) 387-1350 • Address: 209 S. 2nd St. Suite #306 Mankato, MN 56001 • Website: www.mankatopsychologyclinic.com/ Mankato Marriage and Family Therapy Center • Contact: (507) 625-4884 • Address: 510 Long St., Suite #101 Mankato, MN 56001 • Website: http://www.mmftc.com/ Mankato Mental Health Associates • Contact: (507) 345-4448 • Address: 201 N Broad St., Suite #308 Mankato, MN 56001 • Website: http://www.mankatomentalhealth.com/index.html Philip Psychological Clinic • Contact: (507) 345-5049 • Address: 526 S. 2nd St #3 Mankato, MN 56001 Riverview Clinic • Contact: (507) 625-4060 • Address: 600 Reed St. Suite #115 Mankato, MN 56001 Sioux Trails Website: www.siouxtrails.org After-Hours Crisis Number: 1 (800) 247-2809 • North Mankato o Contact: (507) 388-3181 o Address: 342 Belgrade Avenue North Mankato, MN 56003 • Gaylord o Contact: (507) 237-9989 o Address: 716 Sibley Avenue Gaylord, MN 55334

• New Ulm o Contact: (507) 354-3181 o Address: 1407 S. State St. New Ulm, MN 56073 • St. James o Contact: (507) 375-3442 o Address: 201 Armstrong Blvd South St. James, MN 56081 • St. Peter o Contact: (507) 934-2652 o Address: 1301 Marshall St. St. Peter, MN 56082 Southern Valley Psychology • Contact: (507) 385-7725 • Address: 11 Civic Center Plaza #201 Mankato, MN 56001 KRISMA Counseling • Contact: (507) 399-2149 • Address: 117 Downtown Plaza Fairmont, MN 56031 • Website: http://krismacounseling.net/

Emergency Housing Resources Shelters Mankato: • Connections Shelter (Holy Grounds) o Contact: (507) 341-9636 o Address: 501 S. 2nd St. o Overnight shelter from 7pm to 7am • Salvation Army (single men only) o Contact: (507) 345-7840 o Address: 700 S. Riverfront Drive • Committee Against Domestic Abuse (CADA) o Contact: (507) 625-3966 o Address: 100 Stadium Ct. o Provides emergency shelter for female survivors of domestic and sexual violence and their children. • House of Hope (Treatment Facility) o Contact: 507-625-4373 o Address: 1429 3rd Avenue o House of Hope, Inc. is an adult treatment facility that provides a safe environment for individuals who desire to develop a recovery program from chemical and mental health issues. Other Cities • New Ulm – Numas Haus o (507) 359-5172 • Waseca – Bethlehem Inn o (507) 833-8310 • Faribault – Ruth’s House o (507) 332-2236 • Owatonna – Hospitality House (single men only) o (507) 444-4042 • Rochester – Dorothy Day o (507) 282-5172 • Twin Cities – Catholic Charities o (651) 647-2350 11

Minnesota Valley Action Council (MVAC) (Not a shelter)

• Contact: (507) 345-6822 • Address: 706 N. Victory Drive, Mankato Energy Assistance Program (EAP): EAP is a program to provide funds to help pay heating and energy bills. EAP is for: Wage Earners, Self-Employed persons, seniors, and other low-income households. Eligible applicants include: home owners, renters who pay heating costs, and renters with heat included but pay electric. Energy Related Repair Program (ERR): ERR provides emergency repair or replacement of heating systems for Energy Assistance clients. To be eligible, you must be approved for energy assistance, own your home, and have a non-functioning heating system. Rural Housing Assistance and Stability Program (RHASP): The is a six-month case management program to help homeless households get into permanent housing. RHASP monies can pay the 1st month’s rent and support services including utilities and child care. Faribault & Le Sueur County Section 8: • MVAC Le Sueur – (507) 357-4246 • MVAC Faribault – (507) 526 5291

Food Assistance and Resources

ECHO Food Shelf • Address: 1014 S. Front Street in Mankato • Contact: 507-345-7508 ECHO is a client choice food shelf. Proof of residency in Blue Earth County or North Mankato is required to receive assistance. Households can visit up to 12 times per year. Food available include soup, beans, fruits, vegetables, cereal, tuna, eggs, peanut butter, pasta, meat, rice, and milk. Other items may or may not be available during any given visit. Blue Earth County – 410 S. 5th Street. Application required to determine eligibility.

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) • Contact: 507-514-3535 Formerly Food Stamps, a federal program that provides monetary food assistance to qualified individuals in the form of an EBT card that can be used at grocery stores and other participating locations. Eligibility depends on your household’s size and income.

Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) • Contact: 507-304-4163 Vouchers for food available for women with infants and children up to the age of 5.

Salvation Army • Address: 700 S. Riverfront Drive in Mankato. • Contact: 507-345-7840 Free meal 7 days a week from noon-1pm open to anyone. Free bread and bakery items are also distributed during this time. Holiday food packages and a summer meal program are available in addition to emergency services and a seasonal shelter.

Holy Grounds • Address: 501 S. 2nd St in Mankato Located at the Centenary United Methodist Church • Contact: 507-387-1402 Free breakfast served Monday through Saturday, 9am-11am. Access to showers, laundry, job search resources, care closet, and connections to other area resources.

Nutrition Assistance Program for Seniors (NAPS) • Contact: 1-800-365-0270 Monthly food package for qualified adults over age 60.

Campus Kitchen • Address: Centennial Student Union 173. Minnesota State University, Mankato • Contact: 507-389-6076 Campus Kitchen is a food rescue organization that provides meals to those served by the Welcome Inn, Theresa House, ECHO Food Shelf, and households referred by Blue Earth County Social Services.

Fare for All • Contact: (763) 450-4212 • Website: https://fareforall.org/ Reduced cost food packages with meat, fruit, vegetables, and non-perishables. Call or visit their website for details and pricing. Packages MUST be pre-ordered by phone. Local distribution located at New Creation Church, 1124 N. Riverfront Drive in Mankato.

Mankato Public Schools ISD #77 • Contact: (507) 388-7442 • Website: http://www.isd77.org/page/4309 Free and reduced lunch program during the school year. In addition to the program, children 18 years old and younger can eat breakfast and lunch during the summer feeding program at select locations. Application and return address are on the website. 14

BackPack Food Program • Address: 2120 Howard Drive West Suites F & G in North Mankato. • Contact: (507) 720-8511 • Website: http://feedingourcommunitiespartners.org/index.html Feeding Our Communities Partners provides food packs to public elementary school children in Blue Earth County and North Mankato. Each pack supplies breakfast, lunch, and snacks for weekends and school breaks during the school year. Register anytime during the school year.

Hot Meals on Wheels • Contact: (507) 387-4076 • Website: https://vinevolunteers.com/services/hot-meals-on-wheels/ Volunteers deliver a nutritious meal each weekday at 12:00 noon to people living in Mankato, North Mankato, Skyline, Le Hillier, and Eagle lake for those who have difficulties shopping for or preparing their meals. There are no age or income requirements. The beneficiary also receives a valuable safety check each day. Meals cost $3.50/day.

Community Supper • Address: Christ the King 222 Pfau St. in Mankato • Contact: (507) 345-5056 Free supper open to everyone most Wednesday nights from September – May from 5:00- 6:00pm.

Food Not Bombs • Address: 937 Charles Ave in Mankato • Contact: (507) 388-5022 • Website: http://foodnotbombs.net/new_site/ Food Not Bombs serves delicious and healthy vegetarian meals every Sunday in October thru April. Food prep is from 3-5pm and serving starts at 5pm. Free groceries are also available.

WHO MAY BE ABLE TO HELP WITH DEPOSIT OR 1st MONTH’S RENT?

➢ THE SALVATION ARMY (1st month rent only) ➢ Contact Noreen at 507-344-9265

➢ THE REACH (must be 24 or younger) ➢ Contact Krista at 507-381-6670

➢ CATHOLIC CHARITIES (must have a child under 1 years of age) ➢ Contact Jenny Gutierrez at 507-387-5586

➢ MINNESOTA VALLEY ACTION COUNCIL (MVAC) (usually deposits and bills) ➢ Contact Alanna Johnson at 507-345-0455

➢ EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE THROUGH THE COUNTY ➢ Contact 507-304-4335

______It is crucial that you are saving your own money to cover these expenses as well, as money may not be available at the time you apply. If rent is $750.00/month, then the deposit cannot be more than $750.00. Some housing units require the deposit up front along with the application fee. Ideally, applicants should have the deposit and 1st month’s rent ready upon applying to be move in ready.

General Appeal Process ❖ Please note that the appeal process may be different with each property management company/landlord, so please ask about their specific appeal process*

❖ The first step is to apply for housing. After applying, applicants should receive an acceptance or a denial letter. If not, you can request this from your landlord.

❖ If denied, the applicants may want to request an appeal, sometimes called a grievance hearing. The denial letter may request that the landlord receive a letter requesting an appeal by a certain date. If you did not receive a denial letter, ask about the denial process over the phone with the landlord.

Some common reasons for denial include • Recent criminal history • Poor rental history/Past evictions • Providing incorrect information on your application

❖ If the negative information is criminal activity, you can still present “mitigating circumstances” and show/tell why the landlord should not deny you. Mitigating circumstances are things that show the criminal activity is not likely to happen again, and that you would not pose a threat to the safety of other residents/neighbors. If you can show these things, the landlord may still approve your application.

❖ If you did treatment, counseling, or community support programs or groups, like being in religious or cultural groups or activities, you may have a better chance of approval by the landlord.

❖ If the negative information has to do with illegal drug or alcohol use, the landlord may still consider you if you completed a treatment program. A letter from the treatment center should be good enough proof that you completed the program.

❖ If the negative information has to do with a past eviction, do your best to describe the circumstances/barriers you were facing in the past and how you are doing better in the present. Describe what has changed and it may be helpful to emphasize income (if non- payment of rent was an issue) 17

Health Care Open Door Health Center • Address: 309 Holly Lane Mankato, MN 56001 • Contact: (507) 388-2120 • Website: www.odhc.org • Hours: Monday 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. Wednesday 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. o Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Open Door Health Center is an independently owned and operated, non-profit community health center, providing quality and affordable medical, dental, and behavioral health care to all people in Southern Minnesota.

Urgent Care Urgent care should be used for minor injuries and illnesses. These include fevers, colds, sore throats, headaches, earaches, skin allergies and rashes, sprains, fractures, minor burns, minor cuts and lacerations, eye infections, and urinary tract infections. Urgent care is available for walk-ins; it is not necessary to set up an appointment.

Mankato Clinic Urgent Care • Address 1: 1230 East Main St. Mankato, MN 56001 • Contact 1: (507) 389-8680 • Address 2: 1809 Adams St. Mankato, MN 56001 • Contact 2: (507) 625-7684 • Website: http://www.mankatoclinic.com/urgent-care-2 • Hours: Monday – Friday: 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Saturday: 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Sunday: 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Both locations have the same hours.

Mayo Clinic Urgent Care at Eastridge • Address: 101 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive Mankato, MN 56001 • Contact: (507) 594-7000 • Website: https://mayoclinichealthsystem.org/locations/mankato/services-and- treatments/urgent-care • Hours: Monday – Friday 8:00 a.m. – 7:30 p.m. Saturday 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Sunday 11:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Express Care Express care is affordable, high-quality medical care that is provided at a reduced cost to patients 18 months through 75 years that do not have pre-existing medical conditions. Appointments are available every 15 minutes and can be scheduled in person or online. Conditions and illnesses that services are provided for are acne, allergies, cold sores, ear infections, pink eye, respiratory illnesses, ringworm, sinus infections, strep tests, sore throats, sty, vaccines, vomiting, and diarrhea. Mayo Clinic Express Care • Address: 2010 Adams St. Within the Hy-Vee Mankato, MN 56001 • Contact: (507) 385-5800 • Website: https://mayoclinichealthsystem.org/locations/mankato/services-and- treatments/express-and-retail-care • Hours: Monday – Friday 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Saturday 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Sunday 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Closed 1:15-2:30 daily

How Old is Old Enough to be Left Alone?

Minnesota Law for Supervision: Children age 7 and under are always to be supervised. Children age 10 and under cannot provide babysitting. A child’s age, mental ability, and maturity level is different in every child. Children may not be ready even if they fit the age guidelines. • Children ages 8-10 can only be left alone for up to 3 hours. • Children ages 11-13 can only be left alone for up to 12 hours. • Children ages 14-15 can only be left alone for up to 24 hours. • Children ages 16-17 need a plan in place about how to respond to an emergency.

Babysitter Requirements: • Children ages 11-13 can only babysit for up to 12 hours. • Children ages 14-15 can only babysit for up to 24 hours. • Children ages 16-17 can babysit for more than 24 hours with adequate adult back up supervision.

Blue Earth County Human Services 410 S. 5th St. Mankato, MN 56001 (507) 304-4444

Job Seeking and Employment

WorkForce Centers can provide information on completing applications, resumes, and interviews. Some services that they offer are career counseling, classes and workshops to help build skills, assessments to make informed career decisions, and resources to help look for work. They offer free access to computers, the internet, printers, and telephones to aid in seeking employment. There are also programs to help veterans search for jobs, and assistive technology to help people with disabilities.

Mankato WorkForce Center • Address: 12 Civic Center Plaza Suite 1600A Mankato, MN 56001 • Contact: (507) 344-2622 • Website: www.positivelyminnesota.com/mankato • Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Monday – Friday Faribault WorkForce Center • Address: 201 Lyndale Avenue South, Suite 1 Faribault, MN 55021 • Contact: (507) 333-2088 • Website: www.positivelyminnesota.com/faribault • Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Monday – Friday New Ulm WorkForce Center • Address: 1618 South Broadway Street New Ulm, MN 56073 • Contact: (507) 354-3138 • Website: www.positivelyminnesota.com/newulm • Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Monday - Friday Life Work Planning Center for Women • Address: 201 N Broad Street, Suite 100 • Contact: (507) 345-1577 • Website: www.lwpc.org • Hours: Call for an appointment

Staffing Agencies

There are many resources that can assist in finding employment. One of these resources are called staffing agencies. With these agencies, it is possible to look for job openings and apply online, and they also help connect the applicant with other openings that match their qualifications. The types of job openings vary, and they offer flexible, temporary, and temp-to-hire positions. Doherty Staffing Solutions • Address: 1400 E Madison Ave. Suite 332 Mankato, MN 56001 • Contact: (507) 387-5009 • Website: www.dohertystaffing.com • Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday - Friday Jeane Thorne • Address: 1600 Madison Ave. Suite 104 Mankato, MN 56001 • Contact: (507) 625-8800 • Website: www.jeanethorne.com • Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday – Friday Express Personnel Professionals • Address: 113 Monroe Ave. North Mankato, MN 56003 • Contact: (507) 387-5620 • Website: www.expresspros.com/mankato • Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday – Friday Manpower • Address: 111 Star St., Suite 110 Mankato, MN 56001 • Contact: (507) 345-4201 • Website: www.manpower.com Spherion • Address: 709 S Front St., Suite 2 Mankato, MN 56001 • Contact: (507) 387-2200 • Website: www.spherion.com • Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday – Friday 22

Here is a list of internet addresses that can be used to help find employment: www.indeed.com – Add to top and check for easy apply and resume builder www.monster.com www.careerbuilder.com https://us.jobs www.simplyhired.com www.minnesotaworks.net Resume Building: Google Docs (access through your gmail account) will have resume templates. Ask PAH staff for more resources!

Overcoming Rental Barriers

Know what is in your rental history:

• Rental history report • Credit report • Evictions • Criminal background

Communicate past mistakes as current strengths:

• What did you learn from this? • Why are you better because of this? • Why will you be a good renter now? o Rent paid on time o Organized and clean o Be a good neighbor o Maintenance issues right away

Meaningful letters of recommendation

• Self-letter of “Why you should take a chance on me?”

Everything is negotiable

• Month to month lease • Shorter leases • Yard work

Application Fees

• Must “approve” or “deny” on first come first serve basis • Must provide receipt for application fee • Must inform applicant within 14 days the criteria they missed • Refund application fee if denied for other that screening criteria

Companion Animals: Landlord is entitled to breed, size, and noise restrictions

Project-Based Section 8: No felonies allowed

Section 8 Voucher: May have felonies

Public Housing: Can be on the waiting list, as well as Section 8 waiting list at the same time

Section 42: Paying below market rate, income requirement at time of application, is 95% of “New” affordable housing, no bad credit, needs the cleanest of backgrounds

The “How To’s” of Apartment Searching

• The landlord is the customer • Treat housing search like a job search • Know your gross and net monthly income • Do a simple budget and have it with you when meeting the landlord • Find “unique” landlords • Only pay the application fee if you meet the criteria 100% or if the landlord agrees to make an exception for you after being OPEN, HONEST, and BRIEF 25

Possible Affordable Furniture Options

• Free store (may have limited options dependent on donations at the time) • Trash to treasure groups in select city on Facebook • Craigslist (search furniture in select city) • Noreen at the Salvation Army MAY have vouchers to be used at their thrift store. Noreen can be reached at 507-344-9265 • AGAIN Thrift & More: 706 North Victory Drive Mankato, MN 56001 Phone: (507) 345-2409 Store Hours: Monday through Friday 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday Noon-5 p.m. • VINE Home Thrift Store: 77 Star Street Mankato, MN 56001 Phone: (507) 387-2699 Open: Monday-Friday: 9 am - 6 pm Saturday: 10 am - 5 pm Sunday: 12 - 5 p.m. • Refer to Thrift store list in your packet, and pick up the phone!

What to ask a landlord

1. Can you verify the cost of rent? When would rent be due and is there a grace period? Is there a late fee policy? 2. How can I pay rent? Check, money order, online? 3. What is the cost of utilities? What utilities are provided? 4. Are there any deposits or non-refundable fees? 5. What is the application process and screening criteria? 6. What is the duration of the lease? 7. (If interested in having a pet) What is your pet policy and what are the fees? 8. What are the options for lease renewal? 9. What is the parking situation? 10. What is the procedure for submitting a maintenance request? Who makes the repairs? 11. How much notice to you give before entering the property? (Usually 24 hours in advance) 12. What furniture or appliances are included? 13. How does trash and recycling work? 14. How far in advance do I have to provide notice prior to moving out? 15. What are the transportation options in the area? 16. Do you have any other properties available for rent? 17. Do you accept Section 8 or other subsidized housing? 18. What are the neighbors like in the surrounding area? 19. Are there any parks or attractions in the area?

Please go through this checklist before you move out!

1. Have you checked in with staff and filled out your exit paperwork?

2. Is your room clean?

*Please clean your space/room thoroughly!

3. Did you gather all your possessions?

4. Is your cupboard and fridge space empty and clean?

5. Did you turn in your key to Shelter Manager?

6. Have you forwarded your address at the post office?

7. Do you have all the furniture and supplies you need?

8. Did you check with staff about going to the Free Store?

9. Do you have people/friends/family to help you move?

10. Have you signed your lease and received your keys to move in?

Organization/Agency Contact List

Blue Earth County MVAC (507) 304-4335 (507) 345-6822 410 S. 5th St. 706 N. Victory Dr. Mankato, MN 56001 Mankato, MN 56001

City of Mankato Housing Authority Open Door Health Center (507) 387-8600 (507) 388-2120 10 Civic Center Plaza 309 Holly Lane Mankato, MN 56001 Mankato, MN 56001

Mankato Workforce Center South Central Crisis Center (507) 344-2622 (507) 344-0621 12 Civic Center Plaza 521 Pfau St. Mankato, MN 56001 Mankato, MN 56001

ECHO Food Shelf Mankato Area Public Schools (507) 345-7508 (507) 387-1868 1014 S. Front St. 10 Civic Center Plaza Mankato, MN 56001 Mankato, MN 56001

Salvation Army Catholic Charities (507) 345-7840 (507) 387-5586 700 S. Riverfront Dr. 201 N. Broad St. Suite 100 Mankato, MN 56001 Mankato, MN 56001

MANKATO EDA: PUBLIC HOUSING

• Mankato’s public housing is found throughout the city, rather than in one location or neighborhood. Public housing assists low-income people and families to live in subsidized housing managed by the city of Mankato. Program participants pay 30% of their income for rent and utilities.

• Staff manages close to 270 properties throughout Blue Earth County, from 1-5 bedroom apartments and single-family homes. Applicants may apply for housing in Mankato, Eagle Lake, Madison Lake, Mapleton and Lake Crystal. To qualify, applicants must meet income guidelines, have good rental references and pass a background check.

• Applications are available online: https://www.mankatomn.gov/home/showdocument?id=7455

• For an appointment to apply, contact staff at 311 or 507-387-8600 or [email protected]

*Currently the Section 8 waitlist in Blue earth county is closed MANKATO EDA: BRIDGES PROGRAM Must identify with having an SMI

• Help people with serious mental illness (SMI) avoid homelessness by providing them with temporary rental assistance in their community. This allows people to have housing while they are on a waiting list for Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers or other permanent housing subsidy programs. Housing support services are provided to participants through a local mental health authority.

• To apply contact Ruth Johnson at (507) 387-8619 Address: Bridges Rental Assistance Program: 10 Civic Center Plz, Mankato, MN, 56001-7794

SOUTH CENTRAL MN MULTI-COUNTY HRA: SECTION 8 Serving: Martin, Nicollet, Sibley, Waseca, and Watonwan Counties

• You need to live, OR work OR go to college full time in one of our 5 service areas: Sibley, Nicollet, Waseca, Martin and Watonwan counties. You would also need to provide a proof of your preference with one of the following: Living- A copy of a current rental lease, a driver’s license/ID with the address matching the application, or a current utility bill. Working- a copy of a current pay stub. Going to school- a copy of your current college class schedule and student id.

• To request more information or to apply for the Section 8 HCV program, contact the SCMMCHRA office at 507-345-1977 or 1-800-733-9564.

SOUTH CENTRAL MN MULTI-COUNTY HRA: RENTAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (RAP)

• Up to $250 rental assistance up to 5 years • Must have a referral from a worker

• Questions? contact Tammi Born • Phone: 507-345-1977 ext. 7 Address: 422 Belgrade Ave, Suite 102 North Mankato, MN 56003 Fax: 507-345-5908 email: [email protected] website: www.scmmchra.org

Thrift Stores/Free Store Free Household Items • Free Store at Partners for Affordable Housing (Must have a professional case worker with you) o Contact: 507-387-2115 Address: 151 Good Counsel Drive Mankato MN 56001

Free Clothes and Shoes • S.S. Boutique o Contact: [email protected] Address: 151 Good Counsel Drive Mankato MN 56001 Mankato/North Mankato • MRCI Thrift Shop o Contact: (507) 388-3867 o Address: 111 Sioux Road • Again Thrift Store o Contact: (507) 345-2409 o Address: 706 N Victory Dr. • Vine Home Thrift Store o Contact: (507) 387-2699 o Address: 77 Star St. • Goodwill o Contact: (507) 344-0955 o Address: 2024 Adams St. • Salvation Army Thrift Store o Contact: (507) 345-7074 o Address: 201 Star St. • New 2 You o Contact: (507) 385-1455 o 1838 Commerce Dr. in North Mankato New Ulm • MVAC Thrift & More o Contact: (507) 359-8009 o Address: 1607 S. Broadway St. • Treasure Haus o Contact: (507) 354-6108 o Address: 1209 S. Broadway St. 35

• MRCI o Contact: (507) 354-3289 o Address: 1702 Westridge Rd.

Tips for Rental Searching

• Avoid Scams o NEVER give any landlord ANY money until you have viewed the property with the landlord present. o If something feels wrong with a listing, you are feeling rushed by a potential landlord, or the whole experience with a renter seems too good to be true, it may be wise to not pursue that listing. • Know what you want and need o Complete a budgeting form with your case manager to know what you can afford. o Be prepared to know how many bedrooms you need and if you have any special accommodations (i.e. handicap accessible first floor living, etc.) • Stay positive and motivated o Searching for an apartment is stressful but keeping your goal in mind is so very important. Don’t give up! ▪ Contact the Shelter Housing Advocate or your Case Manager for help with: • Appeals • Filling out applications • Any questions you may have. We are here to help you on your journey to securing affordable and sustainable housing!

Transportation Resources MVAC’s Wheel Get There • Contact: (507) 345-0446 The Wheel Get There program sells cars to low-income people at a discount. Prices typically range between $400 and $700. To qualify, you must be over 18, reside in a county served by MVAC (Blue Earth, Brown, Le Sueur, Faribault, Martin, Sibley, Nicollet, Waseca, and Watonwan), and are low-income. Vine Faith in Action • Contact: (507) 387-1666 • Website: https://vinevolunteers.com/services/transportation/ 1. Employment Transportation • Contact: (507) 385-8127 • Vine offers employment-related transportation for single parents, refugees, and other low-income workers. Vine also transports young children of low-income workers to daycare while their parents go to work. This is a 6-month transitional program designed to allow workers time to find permanent transportation. Employment transportation is $3/ride and an additional $1/ride for children being dropped off for daycare.

2. TRUE Transit • Contact: (507) 388-8783 • Website: www.truetransit.org • TRUE Transit provides people rides throughout Blue Earth, Le Sueur, and Nicollet Counties. Rides that are part of a scheduled route are just $3.00. Rides that do not follow the scheduled routes are charged at a higher rate. For more information on pricing, call of visit their website.

3. Door2Door Transportation • Contact: (507) 387-1666 • Assists community members age 60+ living in Mankato and North Mankato when public transportation is unavailable or not easily accessible. Volunteer drivers help older adults arrive at their appointments, shop, and do errands. They arrange transportation for medical and other appointments and provide rides to social and congregational events.

Taxi Services: • KatoCab / KatoVan o Contact: (507) 388-7433 o Open 24 hours a day – 7 days a week • Blue Earth Taxi o Contact: (507) 388-2227 • Greyhound Bus Lines / Land to Air o Contact: (507) 625-3977 • Mavs Taxi o Contact: (507) 388-8294 • Uber o Visit: https://www.uber.com/cities/mankato/ • Lyft o Visit: https://www.lyft.com/signup Special Needs Transportation: • AMV Care Van o Contact: (507) 625-6741 o Address: 703 S. 2nd St. in Mankato o Provides local transportation for people requiring non-emergency medical transportation.

Youth Resources ➢ The REACH (Ages 16-24) Contact: (507) 381-6670 Address: 125 E. Liberty St. The REACH is a gathering place for youth. The center provides a place for youth to go when there is nowhere to go, where they can talk to supportive social workers and counselors, have meals, shower, and do activities. ➢ Mankato Community Education and Recreation Contact: (507) 387-5501 Address: 110 Fulton St. Mankato, MN 56001 Website: http://www.mankatocer.com/ Supports the educational, social, and recreational needs of the community by serving children ages birth to five, youth, and young adults throughout the Mankato Area Public Schools communities. Assuring learning excellence and readiness for a changing world by providing programming to reach all, teach all, and include all.

➢ MVAC Young Adult Career Development Program (Ages 16-24) Website: https://www.mnvac.org/programs/employment-training/young-adult-services/ MVAC serves young adults to help them achieve their educational and training goals.

Parenting/Pregnancy Resources ➢ Catholic Charities Contact: (507) 387-5586 Address: 201 North Broad Street, Suite 100 Mankato Catholic Charities specializes in pregnancy, parenting, and family resources. ➢ Birthright Contact: (507) 387-7818 Address: 330 Stadium Road, Suite 201 Mankato 40

Birth Right provides services to women and teens in need of pregnancy support, regardless of age, marital status, financial situation, gender, religion, or race. Birthright provides FREE and confidential pregnancy testing, counseling, and support services. ➢ Options for Women Contact: (507) 625-625-2229 Address: 11 Civic Center Plaza, Suite 011 Mankato Options for Women provides help to women in Mankato and surrounding areas with the support, assistance, and guidance they need when facing pregnancy. ➢ LSS Crisis Nursery Contact: (507) 995-9259 Address: 710 South 2nd Street, Mankato LSS Crisis Nursery provides short term care for children up to 12 years old by licensed providers. They also provide crisis counseling and support for families

Resources for Seniors/Disabilities

➢ SMILES Contact: (507) 387-7818 Address: 330 Stadium Road, Suite 201 Mankato SMILES assist people with any type of disability to live independently, pursue meaningful goals and enjoy the same opportunities and choices as all persons.

➢ Senior LinkAge Line Contact: 1-800-333-2433 Senior LinkAge Line can help seniors with Housing Resources, Health Insurance, Financial Assistance, Community Supports, and Legal Assistance. The Senior LinkAge Line is a service of the MN Board of Aging.

Local Church List Newman Center Campus Ministry 1331 Warren St Mankato, MN 56001 www.catholicmavs.org 507-387-4154

Hosanna Lutheran Church 105 Hosanna Dr Mankato, MN 56001 www.hosannamankato.com 507-388-1766

Hilltop United Methodist 108 S Manitou Dr Mankato, MN 56001 mankatohilltop.com 507-387-3877

St Joseph The Worker Catholic Church W 7th Hubbell Ave Mankato, MN 56001 sjwhf.org 507-388-4474

Mankato Centenary United Methodist Church 501 S 2nd St Mankato, MN 56001 www.mankatocentenary.org 507-387-4074

First Congregational Ucc 150 Stadium Ct Mankato, MN 56001 mankatoucc.org 507-387-6592

Christ Our Redeemer Evangel Hemlock Rd AT Birch Ave Mankato, MN 56001 www.lutheranlccf.org 507-345-4867

St John The Baptist Catholic Church - Rectory 321 E Liberty St Mankato, MN 56001 stjohnscatholicchurch.com 507-388-7239

Sudanese Ev Lutheran Church 105 Hosanna Dr Mankato, MN 56001

Elevate Church 191 N Victory Dr Mankato, MN 56001 elevatemankatomn.org 507-720-6460

Hillside Church 502 S Victory Dr Mankato, MN 56001 hillsidemankato.com 507-345-7554

Middle Ground Ministries 20013 Stoltzman Rd Mankato, MN 56001 www.middlegroundministries.org 507-388-8457

Saint Peter & Paul Catholic Church 105 N 5th St Mankato, MN 56001 sspeterandpaul.com 507-388-2995

Wlcfs: Christian Family Counseling, Mankato 421 E Hickory St, Ste 402 Mankato, MN 56001 christianfamilysolutions.org 800-438-1772

Diocese Of Winona PO Box 588 Mankato, MN 56002 dow.org

New Creation World Outreach Church 101 Pauley Way Mankato, MN 56001 507-720-6422

Christ Church 210 Pohl Rd Mankato, MN 56001 christchurchmankato.com 507-469-0091

Bethany Lutheran College Guest House 734 Marsh St Mankato, MN 56001 blc.edu 507-344-7898

Two Rivers Vineyard Church 1400 Madison Ave, Ste 208 Mankato, MN 56001 trvc.org 507-344-1135

Covenant Family Church 709 N Riverfront Dr Mankato, MN 56001 www.cfcmankato.org 507-345-1586

Our Savior's Lutheran Church LCMS 1103 N Broad St Mankato, MN 56001 www.oslcmankato.org 507-385-2180

Mankato Church of Christ 1210 Warren St Mankato, MN 56001 mankatochurchofchrist.org 507-387-2521

Maxfield Place 324 Maxfield St Mankato, MN 56001 usc.salvationarmy.org 507-345-2055

United Pentecostal Church 119 State St Mankato, MN 56001 www.mankatoupc.com 507-388-1331

Beacon Lutheran Student Center 1506 Warren St Mankato, MN 56001 www.beaconwels.org 507-345-4511

Mankato Seventh-Day Adventist Church 210 Pohl Rd Mankato, MN 56001 www.mankatosda.org 507-625-8625

First Christian Church 1735 E Main St Mankato, MN 56001 disciples.org 507-387-2197

Saint John The Baptist Catholic 632 S Broad St Mankato, MN 56001 www.stjohnscatholicchurch.com 507-625-3131

Mount Olive Lutheran School 1123 Marsh St Mankato, MN 56001 www.mtolivelutheran.org 507-345-7927

Christ Church Mankato 518 S 5th St Mankato, MN 56001 507-469-0091

Saint Thomas More Newman Center 1502 Warren St Mankato, MN 56001 catholicmavs.org 507-387-4154

Church Of Jesus Christ Of Latter Day Saints 1851 Marie Ln North Mankato, MN 56003 lds.org 507-625-8342

Belgrade Avenue United Methodist Church 325 Sherman St North Mankato, MN 56003 www.baumc.org 507-625-3759

Life Family Church 1120 South Ave, Ste A North Mankato, MN 56003 lfcmankato.com 507-625-9388

Jehovah's Witnesses 420 Marie Ln North Mankato, MN 56003 507-388-5757

Christ Our Redeemer 272 Kingsway Dr North Mankato, MN 56003 507-345-4867 48

Potter's House Of Prayer 1124 N River Dr North Mankato, MN 56003 www.phop.org 507-720-6422

Messiah Lutheran Church-ELCA 1706 Lee Blvd North Mankato, MN 56003 woolenmill.com 507-387-5537

Evangelical Free Church 354 Carol Ct North Mankato, MN 56003 www.riverridgekato.org 507-345-7451

Crossview Covenant Church 2000 Howard Dr W North Mankato, MN 56003 507-387-5606

Lutheran Church Of The Good Shepherd 2101 Lor Ray Dr North Mankato, MN 56003 goodshepherdmankato.org 507-388-4336

Holy Rosary Catholic Church 527 Grant Ave North Mankato, MN 56003 507-388-2017

Christ Our Redeemer Evangelical 1534 Castle Dr North Mankato, MN 56003 www.lutheranlccf.org 507-345-4867

Holy Rosary Catholic Church - Faith Formation 546 Grant Ave North Mankato, MN 56003 holyrosarynorthmankato.com 507-345-6765

Evangelical Lutheran Synod 6 Browns Ct Mankato, MN 56001 els.org 507-344-7356

Crossroads Lutheran Campus Ministry Elca 331 Dillon Ave Mankato, MN 56001 elcacampusministry.org 507-625-6779

Habitat For Humanity 523 E Vine St Mankato, MN 56001 habitat.org 507-388-4516

Tsuhua S Chen 2275 Northridge Dr North Mankato, MN 56003 507-301-6867

W I L D Ministries 1120 S Victory Dr Mankato, MN 56001 507-388-8086

Minnesota Council Of Churches 501 S 2nd St Mankato, MN 56001 507-345-1554

Hosanna Highland Campus & Community Church 329 Ellis Ave Mankato, MN 56001 www.hosannamankato.com 507-388-1172

Good Counsel Hill 170 Good Counsel Dr Mankato, MN 56001 www.ssndcentralpacific.org 507-389-4200

Gideons International PO Box 131 Mankato, MN 56002 gideons.org 507-625-1010

Wel's Lutheran Campus Ministry Mankato, MN 56001 507-387-6044

St John's Episcopal Church 302 Warren St Mankato, MN 56001 stjohnsmankato.org 507-388-1969

Dar Abi Bakr Islamic Center 329 E Plum St Mankato, MN 56001 507-386-1797

Pact Ministries 105 W Lind St Mankato, MN 56001 pactministry.org 507-625-7228

Grace Baptist Church 600 Lind St Mankato, MN 56001 507-388-9355

St John Lutheran Church-Lcms 55209 190th St Mankato, MN 56001 507-278-3835