(UPDATED)
If you've seen news in the past two months, you know about the ongoing ICE crisis in Minnesota. But it is important that you understand the full context in why we're reaching out to you.

People in our community—many with legal status, citizenship, or green cards—continue to be detained by ICE. They are being forcefully taken from their homes, workplaces, and everyday places like grocery stores and schools. Detainees are being held without charges and without a release date, some are being transported from Minnesota and held in detention centers in Texas, and others have completely disappeared from the system, leaving family members to fear for the worst.

When our community members are abducted, their loved ones are left to pick up the pieces. Relatives and friends are draining their resources in an attempt to try to find them and cover the emergency costs necessary for recourse. These families are fighting for their lives and their loved ones despite having their worlds turned upside down and rights violated.

We’ve seen the resilience of Minnesotans who refuse to sit idly by in silence while their community members are abducted. Community members are walking or driving children to school, overseeing school arrival and dismissal times, and accompanying vulnerable people to appointments to ensure their safety. We have organized groups to deliver groceries and essentials to families sheltering in place and to stand guard outside small businesses. Many are putting themselves directly in harm’s way, armed with nothing but whistles and cell phone cameras.

But, the need here is far greater than what current non-profits and community organizations can fill. People have been sheltering in place for long stretches of time, and the economic impact on our communities is growing exponentially.

We are asking for financial support to help cover emergency housing needs for Saint Paul families affected right now. Though we initially considered a broader variety of mutual aid requests, all of our applications have been for rent relief, and we have changed the focus to making sure people who are facing eviction can stay housed. We are working with mutual aid groups, schools, and trusted community leaders to identify families to get them what they need right now. This aid specifically benefits people in the West 7th and Highland neighborhoods and who attend nearby schools. Our fund guidelines are HERE.

We know that this is a big ask, but we have a big lift. If you believe in the dignity of every person and the call to love our neighbors and build a thriving community, please consider giving what you can—and sharing this with others who may be able to help.

Please note the these donations are not tax deductible, as they are considered gifts. If you have questions, please reach out. THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING MINNESOTA!!

Rent Relief for St. Paul Families Harmed by ICE

By Mutual Aid for St. Paul Families

Rent Relief for St. Paul Families Harmed by ICE

For Families in West 7th, Highland and nearby schools

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