In 2019 we served 16 people, in 2020 46 people, and in 2021 96.
We started on May 10, 2019. We grew from the roots of a need and became an organization because of that need. In 2021 we became a 501c3 non-profit to help nourish a community committed to building aspects of homelessness change work.
Our gatherings, weekly and seasonally, create the supportive and trusting environment for improved outcomes in the conditions of shelters and housing initiatives.
"Freedom from the Streets speaks truth to power. I like a place where everyone speaks the truth and everyone listens to each other" - D.
One example of supportive change and impact occurred during a St. Paul Friday meeting, FFTS had a face to face with 15 people - 5 of which were elected officials and middle class workers, and 10 were homeless.
One of the participants shared that he was sexually assaulted in a shelter.
Other participants shared that they too had a similar experience. The elected official brought the St. Paul police to the next meeting and confronted the shelter about the incident. As a result, the shelter was moved to act and followed up by hiring more security during the night shifts.
We work on the ground, in real time, to help bring equity and justice while speaking the truth about the homeless experience.
Freedom from the Streets members also serve on the board of MICAH.