Our Mission Statement
Connections Shelter is dedicated to walking with our neighbors experiencing homelessness to help move them from crisis to stability.
Where We Began
Connections Ministry began as a coalition of downtown churches in Mankato Minnesota, coming together to best serve those in the community seeking assistance and resources. Out of the intentional relationships built through our Community Connectors, it was determined that one of the best ways we could make a difference was to open a rotating shelter. Led by Rev. Collette Broady Grund and Rev. Erica Koser, and partnering with 8 local congregations, Connections launched the shelter October 31, 2017. Over the course of that season we hosted over 125 individuals and families.
Where We Are Now
In 2021, Connections Shelter moved permanently to First Presbyterian Church. We have expanded from 25 beds to 48 beds and operate seasonally from October to May.
In 2022, through a partnership with Blue Earth County, we were able to open the Drop-in Center, located downtown at 800 S Front Street. The Drop-in Center serves as our executive offices, as well as a resource center for those who are experiencing homelessness, or are facing other types of instability in their lives. We offer basic needs, such as frozen meals, snacks, water and Gatorade, hygiene supplies, bus tokens, clothing and other needs.
Our Community Partners
We take our name, Connections, very seriously. We know that it takes a whole community to address the needs of those experiencing homelessness.
We are proud to connect with a wide variety of public and private partners.
Scheels
Open Door Health Center
Mayo Clinic
City of Mankato
City of North Mankato
Blue Earth County
HyVee
Genoa Pharmacy
Partners for Housing
Salvation Army
The Reach
MVAC
Holy Grounds
Bethlehem Lutheran Church
Grace Lutheran
Christ the King Lutheran
Messiah Lutheran
Crossview Covenant
Hosanna Lutheran
Centenary UMC
St. John's Episcopal
St. John the Baptist Catholic
Holy Rosary Catholic
First Presbyterian
Mankato Area Foundation
Mankato Clinic Foundation
Andreas Foundation
Consolidated Communications
Greater Mankato Area United Way