12 October 2023
A domestic and sexual violence shelter in Hastings will close next month due to a lack of funding.
The Hastings Lewis House, run by 360 Communities, announced Thursday that it will be closing mid-November and reducing its staff in its violence prevention and intervention programs, according to a news release from the organization.
“Resource constraints led us to this difficult decision,” said Jeff Mortensen, president and CEO of 360 Communities, in the release. “Unfortunately, at a time when anti-violence work is needed most, critical funding is not keeping pace with the rising cost of operations.”
The two Lewis Houses, one in Hastings and the other in Eagan which will remain open, rely primarily on a grant from the Minnesota Office of Justice Programs.
Despite an increase in demand for services and rising costs, the dollar amount of the grant has remained stagnant, according to the release, though 360 Communities did request additional funds to continue its services.
The closure of the Hastings Lewis House reduces the shelter capacity by 21 beds and impacts around 200 people annually in Dakota County and nearby areas.
Mortensen said they are working on creating a transition plan for the Hastings shelter residents including relocation to the Eagan Lewis House until it reaches capacity.
Per the release, 360 Communities will still maintain its community advocacy by keeping staff in Hastings at the Dakota County Sheriff’s office and the Hastings Police Department.
October is domestic violence awareness month and 360 Communities says domestic and sexual violence affects one in three women and one in seven men. People seeking support can call their 24/7 crisis hotline at 651-452-7288.
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