Introduction to Two Nonprofits

This week I had the pleasure to learn more about two nonprofits in the Twin Cities that are helping women who have struggled against unsurmountable odds.

Let me introduce Sarah's…an Oasis for Women in Saint Paul, MN. Sarah's welcomes women in need of resources or support who often survive significant trauma. They provide safe and reliable housing, on-site support, through search services, health and insurance services, legal services, permanent housing and education and training opportunites. They have helped over 600 women since 1996. The women come from 67 nations and are survivors of violence, abuse, torture, war and other difficult circumstances.

On Wednesday, Sarah's director Cheryl Steeves conducted a tour in which I got to see the facility that houses 30 women. Cheryl is proud of the work Sarah's, but like many nonprofits it suffered from need, especially their community kitchen. The cupboards, workstation and commercial range all need updating. In a folder of information, I was provided a Wish List brochure in which I'll follow up and hope you do also. This is an easy way to support this wonderful organization.

On Thursday I met Lisa Her, the regional navigator from Breaking Free located in Minneapolis, MN.  Through Safe Harbor/No Wrong Door, Breaking Free is providing services to those under 18 who is being sexually exploited and help to rebuild the lives of girls who have experienced sex trafficking and exploitation.

Previously to the safe harbor law trafficking victims were arrested, treated as criminals, and charged for prostitution. Minnesota's safe harbor law, one of a dozen laws across the country, gives children under 16 a chance to recover from their trauma where they are not charged but have access to services.

The FBI identified Minnesota as one of 13 cities with a large concentration of child sex trafficking.

Because of Minnesota's new safe harbor law, Breaking Free has been designated to provide services in Metro East. Lisa's area covers the following counties: Anoka, Chisago, Dakota, Isanti, Ramsey, and Washington. Throughout the state there are other organizations proving services for the Safe Harbor/No Wrong Door initiative.

CNN did a wonderful piece on Breaking Free May 14, 2014. Here is a link: http://www.cnn.com/2014/03/13/us/cnnheroes-carter/