Minnesota Indian Women’s Resource Center opens new supportive units

The Minnesota Indian Women’s Resource Center has begun welcoming residents into 24 newly constructed permanent supportive housing units, according to MPR News. The center’s CEO, Ruth Buffalo, said the housing will provide space and support services for unhoused Native community members. Residents will have access to cultural events, support groups and community meals.

Staff held a ceremonial cleansing with sage, singing and drumming to create a safe environment before residents began moving in. Corey Baesler, housing manager, said the program addresses the isolation and stigma of being unhoused while connecting residents to the larger MIWRC community. The center aims to fill all units by March 2026, with 20 units coordinated through Hennepin County and four accessible units filled directly by MIWRC.