Olmsted County faces setback in bid for $10 million Housing Stability Center funding
The Olmsted County Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA) recently learned its application for $10 million to help fund a Housing Stability Center in Rochester was not awarded by the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS).
DHS received 98 eligible proposals from across the State of Minnesota, totaling approximately $365 million in requests. This was approximately $267 million more than the total funds available. DHS is in the process of negotiating contracts with approved applicants and will not be providing information on funding requests until all contracts are finalized.
“We feel fortunate to have had this opportunity from DHS to apply for emergency shelter assistance,” said Olmsted County Housing and Planning Director Dave Dunn. “Despite the unfavorable outcome, this setback does not signal the end of the road. Olmsted County will continue exploring options and collaborating with community partners to enhance resources and services for people experiencing homelessness in our county.”
“Our shelters are at capacity,” said Olmsted County Board of Commissioners Chair Gregg Wright. “Everyone deserves a safe space to rest their head at night, and we are committed to working with our community partners as we move forward with finding shelter and housing solutions.”
The Rochester Community Warming Center, located at 200 4th St. SE in Rochester, continues to provide emergency overnight shelter for adults in our community. Operated by Catholic Charities of Southern Minnesota, the county-owned facility plays a crucial role in addressing immediate shelter needs. On Friday, December 1, 2023, it was announced the Salvation Army’s social services center, located at 115 First Ave. NE in Rochester, will serve as an overflow space when the Warming Center reaches capacity from December 1 through March 31, 2024. This will help provide additional support during the challenging winter months.