Support Lived Experience Leaders at the Capitol

With recent attacks on housing funding, it's more critical than ever that those directly impacted by homelessness have a seat at the table. We need your help to ensure their voices are heard.

On March 11th, the Lived Experience Advocacy Network (LEAN) is hosting Lived Experience Day on the Hill—a powerful opportunity for individuals with lived experience of homelessness to meet face-to-face with legislators. This day is dedicated solely to people who have firsthand experience with housing instability, giving them a platform to speak about the issues that matter most to their communities.

On March 12th, our partners at the Minnesota Coalition for the Homeless (MCH) will host their own Day on the Hill, where various housing advocates will meet with legislators. LEAN will continue to provide support for those with lived experience who choose to participate.

Why Your Support Matters

Many individuals with lived experience face barriers in getting to the Capitol, including financial constraints, lack of transportation, and the challenges of navigating government spaces. We want to eliminate these barriers so they can fully engage in the democratic process. Your donation will help cover the $17,750 total budget needed to support 30-45 participants over the two days.

Your donation helps provide:

✅ Hotel rooms for those traveling from outside the Twin Cities

✅ Meals throughout both days

✅ Transportation assistance (gas, bus/train tickets, ride-sharing costs)

✅ Childcare support so parents can attend

✅ Volunteer navigators to guide participants through the Capitol and legislative meetings

By donating, you are empowering people with lived experience to advocate for policies that impact their lives and their communities.

How You Can Help

💙 $15 – Covers lunch and water for one participant

💙 $60 – Provides a gas card to help someone travel to the Capitol

💙 $100 – Funds accessibility accommodations like ASL interpreters or mobility aids

💙 $250 – Pays for one hotel room for a participant

💙 $1,000+ – Makes a significant impact, covering multiple participants’ lodging, food, and travel

👉 Donate today and stand with us in the fight for housing justice!

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Together, we can make sure lived experience leaders are at the forefront of housing advocacy. 

Donate now and be part of the movement for change.