Ground Breaks for Homeless Shelter Expansion in Minneapolis

The Salvation Army Harbor Light Shelter in downtown Minneapolis held a groundbreaking ceremony July 27 for a $2.9 million, 6,000-square-foot expansion that will allow the facility to help more people and provide more services. Although millions of dollars have already been raised for the facility, much more is needed.  

The expansion is vital to downtown Minneapolis. It will allow Harbor Light to link the homeless with employment, permanent housing, legal aid and free health care. It will also allow nearly 300 people to attend Sunday morning worship services. 

“Every Sunday we run into the same problem – 200-plus worshipers, but not nearly enough space,” said Envoy Bill Miller, Harbor Light administrator. “The same goes for social services – there is so much need, yet we don’t have enough space or resources to be effective. This expansion is a bold step in beautifying downtown Minneapolis while helping hundreds of people get back on their feet.”

Although community donors have raised most of the funds needed for project, Harbor Light has been forced to borrow the final $500,000 to get construction moving.  

The Salvation Army is urging the public to contribute. Donations designated “Harbor Light Expansion” can be made by mailing a check to 2445 Prior Ave, Roseville, MN 55113, by calling 800-SAL-ARMY or online by clicking here.

“We are extremely grateful for the many individuals, businesses and organizations that helped get us this far,” said Miller, adding that the scheduled completion date for the project is spring 2009. “All we need now is just a little more financial help to get us across the finish line.”