Ways to Advocate
Contact Legislators
Reach out to your local representatives to support policies that tackle hunger and homelessness. Your voice can influence crucial decisions.
Sign Petitions
Join active petitions that demand systemic change. Your signature can help push for necessary reforms.
Join Awareness Campaigns
Participate in initiatives like Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week to spread awareness and inspire action.
Volunteer Advocacy Roles
Become a community ambassador or host informational sessions to educate others about these critical issues.
Education and Awareness
Understanding the scope of hunger and homelessness is crucial. In Minnesota, nearly 8,000 individuals experience homelessness on any given night. Over 10,000 residents depend on food shelves monthly. These statistics highlight the urgent need for advocacy and systemic change.
Myth: Homelessness is a Choice
Fact: Many factors contribute to homelessness, including the lack of affordable housing and living-wage jobs. Personal failure is rarely the sole cause.
Myth: Hunger is Only a Third-World Problem
Fact: Hunger affects thousands in Minnesota alone, with many relying on food shelves to meet basic needs.
Myth: Homelessness is Permanent
Fact: With the right support and resources, individuals can transition out of homelessness and achieve stability.
Myth: Only Adults Experience Homelessness
Fact: Families and children are also significantly impacted, with many seeking shelter and support.
Advocacy Events
MCH 2026 Annual Conference
The Minnesota Coalition for the Homeless (MCH) Annual Conference brings together over 600 individuals from across the region working to ensure every Minnesotan has a stable, affordable place to call home.
September 23 – 24, 2026
Duluth, MN
Homes for All Full Coalition Meeting
Meets the Third Monday of each month 10:00 AM (first 15 minutes of the weekly Legislative Team Meeting)
- Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82596448559
Meeting ID: 825 9644 8559
Dial by your location
+1 305 224 1968 US
+1 309 205 3325 US
Dial by your location +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
Every 3rd Monday at 10 AM
FREE
sign up for advocacy alerts
Be part of the movement to combat hunger and homelessness by signing up for advocacy alerts. Stay up to date on the latest campaigns and discover how your voice can drive meaningful change. Open Your Heart proudly collaborates with leading advocacy groups at both the local and national levels. Explore the links below to learn more about their impactful work and sign up for their action alerts to join the effort.