Three Ways You Can Help:

The Landing MN

For adults experiencing homelessness, having a safe place to land can make all the difference. That's the mission of The Landing MN, Rochester's only day center dedicated exclusively to serving this population, where people can find meals, showers, laundry facilities, medical care, social services and a welcoming place to begin rebuilding their lives.

The organization began in 2018 as a mobile outreach effort, bringing food, water and supplies directly to people experiencing homelessness. In 2022, The Landing MN purchased and renovated its current facility, creating a permanent daytime resource center that now serves hundreds of individuals each year.

"We don't tell people they have to do certain things before they are welcome here," says Erin Sinnwell, Development Director. "We focus first on building trust. Once people know they are safe and supported, they are often more willing to take the next step toward recovery, housing or other services."

Open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., The Landing MN works closely with numerous community partners to connect guests with housing assistance, mental health resources, substance use treatment and employment services. It also operates a free medical clinic six days a week with volunteer healthcare providers, allowing guests to receive care in a familiar setting. 

Success doesn't always happen overnight, Sinnwell says, but even small milestones can be life changing. 

"Sometimes it takes someone a year before they feel comfortable enough to take their first shower here," she says. "We celebrate those victories because they represent trust, dignity, and progress."

One former guest who initially visited the day center while living in a homeless encampment eventually join The Land MN's staff and now serves on its board of directors.

"We love sharing stories like that because they help break down stereotypes," Sinnwell says. "People experience homelessness for so many different reasons, and everyone deserves compassion."

How You Can Help:

1. Volunteer. Serve meals, help with cleanup, or assist with daily operations. Volunteering is also an opportunity to learn more about the day center and its services.

2. Spread the Word. Share The Landing MN mission and attend events and let others know it welcomes donations of clothing, shoes and other essential items.

3. Give. Most of The Landing MN's funding comes from local supporters. Financial gifts - including recurring monthly donations - help sustain operations and services year-round.

AT A GLANCE

Founded: 2018 (Day center opened in its current facility in 2022)

Mission: To build trust, provide hope and supports steps toward stability for those experiencing homelessness. 

2025 Impact:
- 1,095 unique individuals served
- 40,440 visits to the day center
- 1,201 medical clinic visits

thelandingmn.org, info@thelandingmn.org; 
507-884-0423: 426 Third Ave. SE, Rochester