HOPE Harbor celebrates 20 years
The Salvation Army’s largest permanent-supportive housing facility in Minnesota, HOPE Harbor, is celebrating 20 years of affordable housing for vulnerable single adults.
Residents, staff members and Salvation Army officials last week gathered to celebrate the milestone during a program with guest speakers, food, fun, and fellowship. (See photos.)
Located in Minneapolis near Target Field, HOPE Harbor opened in 2001 with the goal of providing a safe permanent home for people with few alternatives. The facility includes 96 efficiency units occupied mainly by individuals who live with a mental, physical or chemical disability and have struggled with chronic homelessness.
“Without HOPE Harbor, many of our residents would continue accessing shelters like a revolving door, or they would be dead, or they would be in jail,” said Dellenna Harper, HOPE Harbor director.
Other HOPE Harbor residents are low-income individuals who can’t afford market-rate housing. Example: Ron (pictured), who moved into HOPE Harbor 12 years ago. He recently retired after working in local bakeries for 15 years.
“I worked hard all my life,” Ron said. “I like this place because it’s quiet, it’s safe, and it’s clean. The Salvation Army helps people and they’re here for a reason.”
Harper and her team are proud to work at HOPE Harbor and look forward to the next 20 years.
“There is not enough housing capacity to help all the people who are homeless – we need more place like this,” Harper said. “I love working here and I love this population. Our residents are amazing.”
Please join The Salvation Army by giving a donation or signing up to volunteer. Your help will provide emergency assistance and hope for people and families in desperate need.