Franni visits at-risk family center in St. Louis Park

Posted in Blog on February 18th, 2010

Hi Everybody!

I’m happy to be writing from our home in Minneapolis. While we’re back in Minnesota during the recess, I’m joining Al as he travels the state. We’re talking to Minnesotans about the economy, health care, and of course — asking a lot of questions. It’s really important to Al that we get out and have conversations with constituents, face to face, so we know what’s really happening on the ground in Minnesota’s many diverse communities.

I’m writing today to let you all know that I’ll also be spending some time focusing on issues that we think needs more attention than they generally receive – homelessness, mental illness, and addiction. I’ve been given the opportunity to visit Perspectives Family Center in St. Louis Park this week, so I wanted to tell you all a little bit about this valuable organization and the good work they do.

Perspectives is the largest supportive housing program in Minnesota for women and children facing incredibly tough challenges. They might be homeless, suffering from mental illness, or dealing with the crushing family disease of addiction. The folks at Perspectives do great work, and I’m looking forward to learning more about their programs and meeting some who benefit from them right now. Al and I know how difficult these situations are, and how important it is that the families facing them are able to find the support they need.

I am so proud of the work Al has accomplished on behalf of women and families so far the Senate. The second bill he passed into law prevents the government from working with defense contractors who deny victims of sexual assault their day in court. When Al introduced that amendment, he took a stand for women and victims everywhere. As a Senator, Al is really proving himself to be a strong advocate for women—something I’ve known all along.

Thanks so much for reading, and if you’d like to learn more about Perspectives, click here to do so.

-Franni