Impact and Programs
Accomplishments
In 2022, Sojourner Project impacted thousands of lives through the Emergency Shelter, Crisis Line, Community Legal Advocacy Program and Outreach and Education Program. There were 180 women and children that utilized emergency shelter who were provided with over 8,000 hours of direct advocacy time. The 24-hour crisis line received 3,108 calls from individuals seeking shelter, referrals or additional safety resources. Due to guidance from MDH related to COVID, our shelter numbers were lower in order to keep all staff and residents safe. In typical years we serve about 400 women/children in shelter. The community legal advocacy program served 755 adults victimized by domestic or sexual violence impacting the safety of 286 children. There were 46 support groups facilitated by staff and 532 therapy sessions were provided to clients. SafeU youth prevention education was provided to over 3,000 students and over 6800 members of the community received awareness raising presentations, professional trainings and outreach information. Although COVID restricted our ability to have all of our volunteers and groups on-site, in 2022 Sojourner benefited from over 3,200 hours of volunteer time.
Current Goals
Sojourner helps increase the safety of victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and elder abuse in order to foster safer communities by providing safe shelter, legal advocacy and outreach and violence prevention programs. Sojourner’s goals include: meet immediate needs for victim safety and shelter by providing safe housing, a 24-hour crisis line, safety planning and transitional support; provide intervention and support in criminal and civil court; promote self-reliance that supports the transition from victim to survivor; advocate for the rights of victims and their children; encourage prevention of domestic and sexual violence through education, training and community awareness presentations; improve criminal justice response by identifying gaps and encouraging change; collaborate with community partners to improve systemic response to victims. Achievement of these goals results in safer lives and safer communities.
Community or Constituency Served
Sojourner serves victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault and elder abuse.
Geographic Area Served
Our shelter typically is housing people from the twin cities metro area and there are no specific geographic requirements. Our Legal Advocacy department serves 17 cities in Western Hennepin County.
