Community Development Home Page
Getting Help with Housing and Homelessness
Eviction
Foreclosure
Homeless
Youth
Seniors
Financial Crisis
Continuum of Care
FHPAP
Community Development
Homelessness: How can you help in your community?
Homelessness does exist in Anoka County, even though it may be a little more difficult to identify than a typical large city. The Continuum of Care Committee has successfully worked continually to increase awareness of homelessness in Anoka County.
The community recognizes the growing problem of homelessnes, and now the question is, "What can I do to help?"
The 3 A's: Awareness, Advocacy, Action
Awareness
What does "homeless" mean? Persons who are homeless lack a safe, stable, permanent place to live. Without stable housing, persons often struggle in other areas of basic living, such as mental health, holding a steady job, or looking for a job. Know the signs that someone may be at risk of homelessness: Inconsistent work history (e.g. hired/fired, hours consistently reduced) Struggling financially Behavior that may indicate mental health problems Behavior that may indicate potential substance problems Domestic violence victim Veterans Deteriorating family relationships
What does "homeless" mean?
Persons who are homeless lack a safe, stable, permanent place to live. Without stable housing, persons often struggle in other areas of basic living, such as mental health, holding a steady job, or looking for a job.
Know the signs that someone may be at risk of homelessness:
Advocacy
Support community investments in affordable housing Dedicated funding to address homelessness Creation of a Homeless Trust Fund Zoning actions that create affordable units in new/redeveloped properties Call for employers to pay a living wage
Support community investments in affordable housing
Action
Learn about your community resources Participate in local homeless planning groups Hold food and clothing drives Provide donations, financial, and other in-kind support to non-profits Volunteer Donate! Click here to see a list of clothing and other items needed
Learn about your community resources
To become involved in Anoka County's homeless planning groups, contact Kristina Hayes, Continuum of Care Coordinator:
Phone: 763-323-5707 Email: kristina.hayes@co.anoka.mn.us
Phone: 763-323-5707
Email: kristina.hayes@co.anoka.mn.us
To learn more about state and national initiatives or to become involved, contact any of the agencies below: