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Addressing the complex housing needs of Minnesotans facing housing insecurity is a top priority here at the Minnesota Department of Human Services. Now, for the first time in DHS history, we have an administration solely dedicated to addressing homelessness and housing security.
We are excited to announce the launch of the Homelessness, Housing and Support Services Administration (HHSSA). This new administration is dedicated to enhancing the state’s efforts in ending homelessness, uniting a diverse array of housing assistance programs, income support initiatives, and grant programs designed to bolster emergency shelters and provide essential support to those in need.
This past summer, DHS underwent significant transitions. Several youth-focused programs became the basis of a new agency, the Department of Children, Youth and Families, while the department’s Direct Care and Treatment programs took initial steps to become their own agency in 2025. While these larger transitions were happening, it gave DHS an opportunity to look at how its remaining programs are structured, and how DHS can better organize its work to improve programs for partners, providers and the people it serves.
Importantly, our new administration is not just a reorganization -- it represents a fresh approach to tackling the complex challenges of homelessness and housing instability in Minnesota. Our administration will play a crucial role in shaping policy and grant-making efforts for all people facing homelessness across the state. Additionally, we oversee adult income supports, ensuring that the most vulnerable populations receive the assistance they need.
Our new administration will also oversee housing-focused behavioral health grant programs. We recognize the critical intersection of behavioral health and housing, and all staff within this administration will continue to collaborate closely with the new Behavioral Health Administration and its teams to ensure integrated support for those we serve.
One of our key commitments moving forward is to work closely with lived-experience consultants to implement the Interagency Council on Homelessness’s Housing Justice Plan. By incorporating the insights and experiences of those directly affected by homelessness, we aim to create more effective and responsive programs that truly meet the needs of Minnesotans.
We understand the life-changing impact of the services we support. We know the importance of a system where services are delivered in a compassionate, equitable manner that is person-centered. We aim to ensure Minnesotans receiving services are treated with respect, dignity, and kindness that supports independence and honors personal choice.
To help partners navigate the programs and services offered by this administration, we invite you to explore this new HHSSA overview, which provides key contacts for program areas. This resource summarizes all HHSSA’s programs and will serve as a valuable tool for understanding the support available to individuals and families facing housing instability. For more information, visit the DHS housing webpage.
Staff here at the Homelessness, Housing, and Support Services Administration extend our heartfelt thanks for your ongoing efforts in helping Minnesotans secure housing stability. Your dedication is making a significant impact in the lives of many. In the spirit of collaboration, we will be creating several new opportunities to connect with partners and share insights, which we’ll be sharing in the months to come. Our door is always open for feedback, and partners are encouraged to reach out with their thoughts and suggestions as we embark on this important journey together.
All Minnesotans deserve stability and to live with dignity and thrive in community, without disparities. Together with our partners, we can make meaningful strides toward ending homelessness in Minnesota.
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