CEO of People Serving People Opens New Minneapolis Family Shelter

The new family shelter in Minneapolis, Belonging Place, has reached full capacity just over a month after opening. Located a few blocks from U.S. Bank Stadium and across the street from Minneapolis City Hall, the shelter is the third operated by People Serving People, an organization known for its family shelters and partnerships with Hennepin County.

The converted hotel still retains many of its original features, including lounge seating, old beer taps, and rooms upstairs. Hoang Murphy, CEO of People Serving People, shared his personal connection to the shelter. He experienced homelessness as a child in Minneapolis and expressed regret that such a place had not been available for his family. “Children cannot make it on the street. They need a place to be,” he said.

Murphy emphasized the cascading effects of family homelessness, noting that it often leads to a range of challenges. People Serving People took over the building from Hennepin County this summer, transforming it into a shelter within months. Families can stay as long as necessary, provided the county approves their housing needs.

Hennepin County Commissioner Marion Greene joined the organization to celebrate the opening of its third family shelter. She highlighted the importance of partnerships like this one, pointing to the county’s “shelter for all” policy, which mandates finding shelter space for families in need. “We will find them a place to sleep that night so they do not sleep outside,” Greene said.

The county’s January point-in-time count found 365 families with children using shelters. The total number of people in shelters dropped 6% from 2025. People Serving People reports that 20% of the people it supports are younger than 6 years old.

The shelter opened after Minneapolis and St. Paul both faced challenges this summer in managing homeless encampments. The community’s response has underscored the need for safe, family-friendly spaces that reflect the dignity and worth of every person.

Source: Read the original report