Homelessness Prevention resources are meant to help people keep their homes and avoid becoming homeless. These resources can assist with things like stopping eviction, helping with utility bills, providing support and guidance, and giving referrals to other helpful services.
Emergency Assistance
Emergency Assistance (families with minor children) and Emergency General Assistance (adults only) can provide one-time assistance in certain situations. If a household is housed, then the aid can assist in preventing eviction or utility disconnection. If the household is experiencing homelessness, then the aid can assist with first month’s rent or damage deposits. Households must meet all eligibility requirements and be able to afford all basic needs moving forward. To find out if you qualify and how to apply, visit the
Emergency Assistance page.
Rental Assistance
Dakota County families and adults needing help with rent to avoid eviction should first apply for Emergency Assistance.
If Emergency Assistance is denied and assistance is still needed to avoid eviction, reach out to 360 Communities (952-985-5300) or CAP (651-322-3500). Youth (ages 18-24) should contact the YMCA (763-493-3052).
If you need assistance figuring out Rental Assistance resources, call the Dakota County Housing Resource Line at 651-554-5751, option #1.
The video is also available in
Spanish and
Somali.
Energy Assistance
Housing Clinic
The Dakota County Housing Clinic works together with 360 Communities, Southern Minnesota Regional Legal Services, Legal Assistance of Dakota County and Dakota County. They help people with low income at eviction court hearings. The goal is to stop evictions and support both renters and landlords to keep homes stable.
If you live in Dakota County, details on how to connect with 360 Communities and legal assistance will be in your eviction summons. Going to your court hearing is very important. If you miss it, the court will likely go ahead with the eviction.
Housing Clinic receives awards
Dakota County's efforts have received awards both regionally and nationally:
July 2024: National Association of Counties (NACo) Achievement Award
Awarded to programs that help residents in crisis. It was
one of seven national awards received by the county.
August 2024: Amicus Curiae Award given by First Judicial District to 360 Communities
The court gives the Amicus Curiae Award (Friend of the Court) every year. It is for exceptional service, leadership, or other contributions to help administer justice.
On-Site Apartment Services
Dakota County Social Services and some property management companies teamed up to create this program. It helps people who live in apartments in Dakota County. It offers services to tenants to help address problems and make sure everyone has a good place to live and stays healthy.
If you manage an apartment building in Dakota County and are interested in this service, please contact Dakota County's Landlord Engagement Coordinator
Teri Lazaretti.
This video is also available with
Hmong or Spanish subtitles.
In 2024, the Minnesota Multi-Housing Association gave the program at Holiday Acres the Multi-Housing Achievement in Design, Advertising and Community Support Award. This is for outstanding and innovative resident experience.