Union Gospel Mission Twin Cities continues encampment outreach as Saint Paul closures approach

These additional beds represent more than a place to sleep. They create opportunities for people to access meals, compassionate mental health care, recovery support, education and workforce development, and the relationships that help move them toward lasting stability.”

CEO Pam Stegora Axberg

Audio

Union Gospel Mission Twin Cities continues encampment outreach as Saint Paul closures approach.mp3

As the City of Saint Paul advances the process to close several encampments, Union Gospel Mission Twin Cities (UGMTC) continues walking alongside people experiencing homelessness with compassion, dignity and practical support.
 
Increased outreach at Pig’s Eye encampment
Following the city's announcement, UGMTC's Chaplains and Outreach Team increased its presence at the Pig's Eye encampment to connect people with resources and support, building on years of relationship-based outreach.
 
“We’re here to welcome them and let them know that there are resources. There are places with support,” said Sammy Watkins, UGMTC director of chaplains and outreach. “Behind every tent is a story and a person.” On the day before and the day of the closure, outreach staff will be on-site to offer transportation to its Men's Campus for individuals seeking support.
 
Following the closure, UGMTC’s Outreach Team will continue working alongside community partners, including the City of Saint Paul’s Homeless Assistance Response Team (HART), to connect individuals with shelter, meals, clothing, supportive services and pathways toward stability.
 
Expanded shelter capacity creates more opportunities for support
UGMTC recently completed the first phase of renovations at its Men’s Campus—435 University Ave. E. in Saint Paul—creating 50 additional permanent emergency shelter beds for men experiencing homelessness. The expanded space provides a welcoming and dignified environment that allows UGMTC to serve more people seeking a safe place to stay.
 
“We are expecting an increase in people coming to us for shelter and we are grateful for the opportunity to welcome people to take that first step,” said UGMTC CEO Pam Stegora Axberg. “These additional beds represent more than a place to sleep. They create opportunities for people to access meals, compassionate mental health care, recovery support, education and workforce development, and the relationships that help move them toward lasting stability.”
 
UGMTC remains committed to working with community partners to respond to homelessness through outreach, emergency shelter and wraparound services. Together, these efforts help create pathways toward hope, healing and stability for people in need.
 
About Union Gospel Mission Twin Cities
Union Gospel Mission Twin Cities is a non-profit organization dedicated to ending homelessness in the Twin Cities. UGMTC provides a range of services to help people experiencing hunger, homelessness and addiction get back on their feet, including emergency shelter, transitional housing and wraparound care. UGMTC is committed to building a community where everyone has a safe, stable place to call home. Learn more at ugmtc.org.