In 2014, advocates and community members from across the state rallied to pass a record-breaking $100 million in bonds for housing at the State Capitol. On May 20, 2014, Governor Dayton signed the bill into law.  This funding will be used to build and preserve over 5,000 units of affordable housing for homeless and low-income Minnesotans. […]

Here is a list of all the affirmative and positive MFIP policy changes that passed last week.  Your Prosperity for All support and advocacy paid off in big ways! EDUCATION.  The MFIP workforce education changes will take effect July 1, 2014:  Unlimited participation will be allowed in adult basic education, GED coursework, ESL, and post-secondary education/training (including 4-year programs).  Several statutory barriers […]

Policymaking 101 requires you to put yourself in the shoes the people affected. Let’s jump into the shoes of one of the 10,000 adults without a high school diploma or GED who participate in Minnesota’s welfare program (Minnesota Family Investment Program, or MFIP). MFIP is the primary economic safety net for low-wage workers with children. COUNSELOR: […]

Good news came out of the Capitol last week. The House Capital Investment Committee released it’s bonding bill proposal: it includes $100 million for housing! The Senate will release its bonding proposal next month. The MFIP Workforce Education Bill was also approved by key committees. Lawmakers will need to decide if it will be included in the final Health […]

[View the story “Homeless Day on the Hill 2014” on Storify]

[View the story “Homes for All: Bond for Housing” on Storify]

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The legislative session kicks off February 25, 2014. Governor Dayton is calling this year the “un-session.” We know it will be shorter than usual. Your advocacy is more important than ever in the coming weeks for two reasons. First, lawmakers need to know housing and economic opportunity are a priority this year–even on a short […]