Building Home: April 2024 updates & news from Beacon
Beacon staff testify at the state capitol
Beacon CEO Chris LaTondresse, VP of Policy Ben Helvick Anderson, and Director of Congregational Organizing Rev. Emily Goldthwaite appeared in front of Minnesota Senate and House committees this past month to testify on behalf of supportive and affordable housing.
Here’s a summary of the policy changes they advocated for:
- Housing bonds to build new homes and stabilize existing affordable housing
- Zoning legislation that would make it easier to build affordable housing statewide.
- Providing additional aid to families experiencing homelessness with the Family Supportive Housing Act
Learn more about the zoning reform bill and raise your voice in favor of affordable housing by visiting our blog.
Supportive housing inspires community at Lydia
Lydia apartments provides 80 safe, affordable homes to individuals who previously experienced homelessness. “This building is like a library. Behind each door is a different story,” shared Ray, a 16+ year Lydia resident. “We need more homes like this because everyone’s story is unique and deserves to be heard.”
Lydia is where residents who’ve experienced homelessness can heal, focus on their mental and physical health, feel safe in a community they love, and thrive with the support they need.
Learn more about the stories of the residents who live at Lydia by visiting our blog.
Boost Beacon’s ability to provide supportive housing
Supportive Housing bridges the gap between chronic housing insecurity and housing stability. By providing a safe, affordable home and tailored onsite services, supportive housing programs reduce an individual or family’s risk of experiencing recurring homelessness.
These services also help residents pursue goals around health, education, employment, social connections, and overall well-being. Neighbors like you can help sustain these crucial services.
Your gift of $100 each month will help ensure that a resident has access to these services in a Beacon home.
Give generously today at beaconinterfaith.org/donate or contactdonations@beaconinterfaith.org to start a conversation about what your generosity can do for the greater Beacon community.
Political Advocacy 101: Becoming a housing advocate
What does it take to become a housing advocate? In many instances, it’s as easy as showing up, asking questions, and being present.
In this way, Beacon advocates have changed policies at the local and state levels and paved the way for affordable homes for years.
Discover what actions you can take to help advocate for home by checking out Political Advocacy 101: Becoming a housing advocate.
Save the date! – Light the Way Home
Mark your calendars for Beacon’s signature fundraising event, Light the Way Home, on Monday, September 30, 2024.
This event offers an invitation to give generously and address housing instability as a community.
More information will be shared soon, or contact Elodie Lee at elee@beaconinterfaith.org with questions.
Other upcoming events
- Rent is Due: Day of Action on April 3 at 8:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. (virtual)
- Beacon 101 on April 10 at 4:30 p.m. (virtual)
- Beacon 101 on April 17 at 8:30 a.m. (virtual)
