MINNEAPOLIS — Dignity is a priority for Minnesota’s largest homeless shelter. A new addition to Catholic Charities Hope Street for Youth aims to provide just that.
“The need never ends,” said Keith Kozerski, chief program officer for Catholic Charities.
Hope Street is a 30-bed shelter for homeless youth aged 18 to 24. It offers more than just a place to rest.
“Our support looks like we’re reminding these people who they are,” said Tasha Mays, Senior Program Manager at Hope Street.
Mays feels the mission on a personal level.
“I’ve experienced homelessness in the past. So to be a part of someone’s transition from where they are to who they’re supposed to be — it’s amazing,” she said.
More than half of Minnesota adults experiencing homelessness become homeless by age 24, and 36% do so before age 18. Hope Street is working to break the cycle, and one way they’re doing that is through clothing.
“If you dress well, you feel good,” Mays said. “And that’s what we’re hoping for.”
Monday morning, crews were busy converting a storage space into a closet. “The Closet” is permanent and will provide free clothing to people living on Hope Street. While the clothing is free, it will provide a unique shopping experience. Mays says it’s all about dignity.
“I hope it’s very similar to when we go to the store and shop for our personal belongings. I hope it brings excitement. I hope it brings joy. I hope it’s life-changing,” Mays said.
To make this happen, Catholic Charities received a grant from Kiwanis Downtown Minneapolis Club. The nonprofit also partnered with California Closet to build it. Through The Closet, Hope Street hopes to provide three to five outfits to each young person who stays there.
The Hope Street team says the enthusiasm among young people is high, and the need is even greater.
“Just last week, a young guy came in and he seemed extremely stressed,” Mays said. “So I pulled him aside and said, ‘Hey, what’s going on?’ He said, ‘I start school on September 5th. I’m a senior in high school and I don’t have any clothes to wear.'”
Mays said The Closet should be on next week and open to young people. The episode will be permanent — and so will the message.
“All we do is shine a mirror in their face. Shine a mirror in their face and give them power,” Mays said.
Catholic Charities has received some money to purchase new clothing, but they are also accepting donations. If you are interested in helping, click here.
Beret Leone
