Mission In Action

The Ordean Foundation celebrated its 90th anniversary on December 19th, 2023. In recognition of its 90th anniversary, the Ordean Foundation awarded a $90,000 grant to AICHO for their Dabinoo’igan Domestic Violence Emergency Shelter expansion and renovation project. This special grant award demonstrated Ordean’s continued long-term commitment to AICHO. The Dabinoo’igan Shelter provides domestic violence emergency shelter stay up to 30 days, resources and services, and legal advocacy. The average number of stays per year ranges between 120-150, with an anticipated increase to 250-300 stays per year.

The renovated shelter will accommodate single and family households fleeing violence with safe shelter, meals and food access, and an array of supportive services. AICHO has 24-hour crisis response for victim/survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and trafficking. AICHO also coordinates with partner shelters through the statewide Day One program and accepts referrals for shelter access. Dabinoo’igan Shelter is the only culturally specific shelter in Northeast Minnesota. As a culturally specific shelter, the shelter offers access to cultural programming, support, and resources. Cultural practices are embedded in the service delivery. AICHO’s legal advocacy program assists in obtaining Orders of Protection and Harassment Restraining Orders, provides court advocacy, and attends court and legal appointments with victim/survivors. The 90th anniversary grant award shows Ordean’s continued partnership with AICHO and commitment to their operations.

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