Emergency Shelter Capital Grants
In 2023, the Minnesota Department of Human Services was awarded just over $100 million for non-profit organizations, Tribal Nations, and local units of government operating emergency homeless shelters for youth, single adults, and/or families experiencing homelessness. The department awards two types of funding:
- One-time: Approximately $98 million is available in grants as outlined in session Laws of Minnesota 2023, chapter 70, article 11, section 14 and Laws of Minnesota 2023, chapter 70, article 20, section 2, subdivision 24, paragraph (f) for shelter acquisition, planning and design, construction, and/or renovation. This is a one-time appropriation and funding is available until June 30, 2028. All of the funding has been allocated, with projects in varying stages of completion.
- Ongoing: $2 million per biennium is made available under Subdivision 7 of the Homeless Youth Act (HYA) (256K.45) for minor or mechanical repairs or improvements for existing Homeless Youth Act grantees. Homeless Youth Act capital funds have been awarded for State Fiscal Year 2026-27.
Below are examples of projects that have been supported with Emergency Shelter Capital funds:
- Funding for critical facility repairs and upgrades for a culturally specific provider serving youth ages 5–17, including sidewalks, drainage, roofing, structural repairs, exterior restoration, and replacement of key building systems (boiler, water heater, plumbing fixtures).
- Funding to expand shelter capacity by doubling beds and transitioning from a congregate model to private rooms with individual bathrooms, improving dignity and safety.
- Funding for infrastructure improvements at the only youth shelter in greater northwest Minnesota serving youth as young as 9, including HVAC system upgrades, door and window replacement, interior/exterior repairs, flooring, and exterior signage/deck improvements.
- Funding to construct 71 new domestic violence shelter beds in a new facility outside the metro, including pet-friendly accommodations for survivors.
Funding information
- 49 total contracts to date
- Current median grant award amount: $2,411,122 (including one-time, $98 million and SFY24-25 $2 million Homeless Youth Act funds)
- SFY26-27 Homeless Youth Act funds: 8 grantees, average award of $222,222 (for the biennium)
Highlights from state fiscal year 2025
- 100% of capital funds are awarded and under contract with selected grantees.
- 10 capital projects completed, resulting in 160 maintained or improved emergency shelter beds, and 137 new emergency shelter beds.
- 20 capital projects expected to be completed by Dec. 31, 2026.
Additional capital projects will begin or be completed in 2027.