When we think of homelessness, we often imagine people living outdoors. But in suburban communities, homelessness is often hidden—in cars parked overnight at big box stores, or in week-to-week motel rooms that drain every last dollar. The Strain You Can’t Always See Living without stable housing takes a toll that goes far beyond a [...]
When we talk about trauma, people often imagine extreme events—abuse, violence, or tragedy. But trauma also lives in the everyday moments we don’t always recognize. It hides in how we react, in the patterns we repeat, and in the feelings that rise up without warning. The Trigger You Don’t See Think about a time [...]
When most people hear the word homelessness, they picture tents under bridges or individuals sleeping in doorways downtown. But here in our suburban communities, homelessness often looks very different—and it’s harder to see. At Stepping Stone Emergency Housing, we meet people every day who don’t fit the stereotypes. Many of our residents held jobs [...]
At Stepping Stone Emergency Housing, we believe in the power of second chances. Few embody that belief more than Julie Jackson, one of our dedicated Shelter Advocates. Julie’s path to Stepping Stone is one marked by challenges, transformation, and an unwavering commitment to helping others. For 35 years, Julie worked in the hotel industry, [...]
August is National Make-A-Will Month—a time to reflect on what truly matters and how we can ensure our values live on. At Stepping Stone Emergency Housing, we believe in dignity, stability, and compassion for all. Every day, we walk alongside people who are doing the hard work of rebuilding their lives after experiencing homelessness. [...]
Sandi Baker brings a rare blend of heart, operational insight, and community spirit to everything she does—and we’re thrilled to welcome her as the newest member of our Board of Directors. Sandi grew up in Princeton, Minnesota, and now lives in Big Lake, where she raised her two sons. Her oldest, Chase, a UW-Eau [...]
When Liah Taylor joined Stepping Stone Emergency Housing in August 2024, she stepped into a brand-new role—one of the first to serve in our newly launched Housing Stabilization Services program. But while the program was new, Liah’s passion for this work had been growing for years. A Calling Rooted in Lived Experience Liah’s journey toward [...]
At Stepping Stone Emergency Housing, we know that strong community partnerships are essential to helping our residents move from homelessness to hope. Few partners embody that spirit more fully than Walters Recycling & Refuse, a family-founded, community-driven company with deep roots in Anoka County and an unwavering commitment to giving back. Founded in 1988 [...]
