Semcac Outreach & Emergency Service programs support the mission of Semcac by striving to empower families and individuals to financially stabilize their lives, prevent homelessness, provide nutritious food to those in need, provide assistance during crisis situations, offer assistance with accessing other Semcac services and community resources.
Click on any of the programs below for more information.
THE OUTREACH SERVICES DEPARTMENT CONSISTS OF THE FOLLOWING PROGRAMS
Advocacy & Emergency Assistance
Semcac Outreach Services staff are located at each of the Semcac contact center locations, in the seven counties of Steele, Dodge, Winona, Freeborn, Fillmore, Mower and Houston. Our staff offers assistance for households struggling with financial hardships by helping them to access Semcac programs and services, along with other community resources. The Outreach Services staff advocates for clients, provides information and referrals, assists with completing applications for services, and administers crisis assistance as funding is available.
Car Repair Program
Available in the counties of Dodge, Steele and Waseca – car repair program. NOTE: This program has expended all funds for the remainder of 2020 (no funds remaining). Please talk to a case manager / staff member about other potential options for transportation assistance.
Clients receiving crisis assistance also meet with our staff to establish a plan for stability. Semcac Outreach Services also offer the Dollars and Sense Class.
Food Shelves
Semcac operates four food shelves, providing families in need with nutritious food. Emergency food is available to any household experiencing a food crisis, regardless of income. These food shelves are located in Rushford, Kasson, Preston and Caledonia.
Homeless Prevention & Assistance
Semcac Outreach Services offer homeless prevention and assistance as funding permits. The services are administered through the seven Semcac Contact Centers. The following outreach services are provided:
Family Homeless Prevention Services
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One time assistance with rent or mortgage payments.
Rapid Re-Housing Program
- Assistance for homeless persons.
COVID Housing Assistance Program (CHAPS)
- Assistance paying past due rent or mortgage. Semcac is one of the local administrators – to check eligibility & apply contact 211 or text MNHOME to 898-211.
Freeborn County Homeless Shelter
- The shelter consists of three apartments, located in Albert Lea, Minnesota. Residents may stay for up to 90 days.
Read about some of our Outreach & Emergency Services Successes!