Agenda Packets - 2026/02/23 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

clients and their families facing multiple complex needs in addition to their legal and safety concerns which result in addit ional barriers to achieving long-term safety and stability. We wanted to share a client story that highlights the need for addition al resources. “Marta” is a Mounds View resident who was referred to Tubman by law enforcement after her ex-partner violated her protective order. A Tubman legal advocate was able to connect with her right away to create a safety plan and provide information on the court process and the defendant’s custody and release status, as well as explain her rights as the victim in the case. As the criminal case proceeded through the process, Marta was able to provide input to her advocate and the prosecutor, and the defendant ultimately pled guilty to the violation. Tubman also supported the family with gas and grocery gift cards and baby supplies, and Marta was referred for attorney services regarding immigration and family law help. Marta’s advocate also assisted with lease breaking paperwork so that she could move to safer housing. When sharing what Tubman’s services meant to her, Marta stated th e following: “Tubman has been such an important support to me. I was able to receive resources, guidance, and advocate help from my advocate through the criminal case and beyond. Tubman was there for me, and my advocate went above and beyond to meet up with me and support me. Thank you so much for always being there for me, especially during my darker times, facing and dealin g with domestic abuse from my children’s father.” In addition, we continue to build stronger relationships with the Mounds View Police Department to provide extra support to the victim-survivors we serve. For example, we can reach out when needed to request extra patrols for victims in especially scary situations. Recently, the city prosecutor, police department, and our Mounds View Tubman advocate worked diligently to take FOUR domestic cases to trial within a few weeks. That is unheard of. It really goes to show what can happen when all systems partners work together to support victims and hold offenders accountable. In terms of our broader agency highlights and challenges, 2025 was very much a year of highs and lows. This last year has bee n challenging in terms of navigating confusing and quickly changing executive orders and supporting immigrant survivors who may be fearful to reach out for help in our current climate. Due to continued stagnant state government funding and no one -time funding in FY26, Tubman also faced a very difficult budget process which resulted in cuts to services across several programs effecti ve November 1, 2025. On a positive note, our pet sanctuary at our Maplewood shelter, Harriet’s Haven for Pets, officially opened in December 2025. We are excited to offer this resource to help reduce this barrier for survivors fleeing to safety. In addition, our Central Acce ss Team expanded our resource line hours and helped streamline access to all Tubman services. It includes a shared supervision model with expertise in legal, clinical, and youth and housing services with a team made up of a mix of paid staff and interns and volunteers. Overall, Tubman is grateful to the City of Mounds View for your continued support for our legal advocacy services, and we appreciate your ongoing commitment to providing these important services to your community moving forward.