Serving the Community for 50 Years
In 1975, a group of visionary leaders from local faith communities, residents, and city officials came together in St. Louis Park to address the urgent unmet needs of their neighbors. This collaboration led to the founding of STEP, an organization that began its journey in the basement of the Brookside Community Center, staffed by a single dedicated employee and a passionate group of volunteers who provided food to those in need.
As the community evolved, so did STEP. By 1977, recognizing the diverse challenges faced by residents, STEP introduced the "Clothes Closet." This initiative offered free clothing, bridging the gap for individuals and families requiring essential and seasonal apparel.
The 1980s brought further growth as STEP expanded its services to include social work and a rental assistance program, aimed at preventing homelessness. Central to STEP’s mission was the commitment to respect the dignity of clients, empowering them to make their own life choices. After relocating twice, STEP finally established its permanent home at 6812 West Lake Street in 2010, setting the stage for its continued impact on the community.
STEP responds to our neighbors in need by providing access to vital services that foster stability.
We aspire to be a pillar of our community for connecting residents with resources to fulfill their basic needs.
Our Mission and Vision
In 2021, the needs of the community surged, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. STEP responded by acquiring an adjacent building and completing a full remodel, effectively doubling its space. This expansion allowed the organization to hire additional staff, triple the capacity of the clothes closet, and enhance its food shelf services.
Today, STEP is an indispensable resource for the St. Louis Park community, adapting its offerings to meet the evolving challenges faced by residents dealing with economic hardships. Its comprehensive services include:
Food Shelf: STEP operates a robust food shelf that ensures families in need have access to nutritious meals, supplemented by fresh produce, dairy, and essential grocery items.
Clothes Closet: The enhanced Clothes Closet not only provides clothing but also seasonal necessities like coats, shoes, and school supplies, which are particularly crucial during back-to-school and winter months.
Social Work Services: Professional social workers are available to offer counseling and case management, helping clients address housing, employment, and mental health issues, empowering them to make informed decisions about their futures.
Rental Assistance Program: To support housing stability, STEP provides rental assistance to those at imminent risk of eviction, thereby preventing homelessness and the challenges it entails.
Emergency Assistance: STEP offers urgent financial help for utility bills and transportation, aiding individuals and families in crisis situations to maintain their stability.
Community Engagement and Education**: Engaging the local community is central to STEP’s mission, with workshops and outreach programs designed to educate residents about available services, financial literacy, job preparation, and nutritional guidance.
Volunteer Opportunities: The organization actively involves community members through various volunteer programs, fostering solidarity and enhancing the support network among residents.
Partnerships: STEP collaborates with local businesses, schools, and nonprofits, building a strong foundation of resources and services that extend from education to job training initiatives.
Through its commitment to respect, dignity, and empowerment, STEP continues to adapt to the needs of a diverse population. The organization doesn’t just provide immediate assistance; it fosters long-term self-sufficiency and resilience within the community. STEP’s unwavering mission is to ensure that every individual and family has the support they need to thrive, creating a stronger, more united St. Louis Park for all.
