Helpful Legal & Community Resources in Rochester for Minnesotans Impacted by ICE
ICE was behind me a few weeks ago while I was driving on Broadway in Rochester - near the entrance for the Galleria. It was an unmarked truck and they turned their red and blue lights on in the grill of the vehicle and side mirrors as they were tailgating me aggressively. I started driving towards our police station because I wasn't going to pull over.
January was a month that Minnesota will never forget. Personally, I'll never forget that drive on Broadway.
News hit today that the Operation Metro Surge in Minnesota is ending. However, the impact of the recent federal enforcement actions in our state will take time for our communities to recover. Some...longer than others.
Timeline: How ICE’s Arrival Sparked Protests, Lawsuits, and Deadly Encounters in Minnesota
Gallery Credit: Minnesota Now
While the intensity wasn't the same in Rochester as it was in the Twin Cities area, stories of U.S. citizens who felt like they needed to shelter in place became a reality here too. We even saw how the impact of DHS being in Rochester played a part in the rise in absences by 81% at our public schools. And that is just the surface level.
If you've been looking for ways to help people in our community or you have been impacted by the latest events in Minnesota, Channel One Regional Food Bank recently shared a great guide with helpful information.
Helpful Resources For Individuals in Southeast Minnesota Impacted By Recent Federal Enforcement Actions
According to Channel One Regional Food Bank, the resources below are where the most vital support is available right now and how others can help.
Whether you need help or want to lend a hand, everyone can make a difference. - Channel One Regional Food Bank Facebook Page
Housing:
- For households with at least one child:
- Short-term rental assistance
- Limited utility support
- Landlord mediation
- Stabilization services
- Get more information or learn how to help at:
- 507-281-3122
- fprochestermn.org/hopeathome
Food:
- Channel One Food Shelf Hours
- Monday through Thursday 8:00 am until 6:00 pm
- Friday 8:00 am until 12:00 pm
- Home delivery and proxy shopping is available
- Get more information or learn how to help at:
- 507-424-1707
- helpingfeedpeople.org
Legal:
- Southern Minnesota Interfaith Immigrant Legal Defense
- Obtaining and funding legal representation
- Right to a fair hearing
- Affirming the dignity and rights of everyone
- Get more information or learn how to help at:
Other nonprofits to check out who are great resources for our Southeast Minnesota community:
LOOK: Food history from the year you were born
Gallery Credit: Joni Sweet
