What to Expect at dakota woodlands

​If you are experiencing a housing crisis and are looking for information about placement at Dakota Woodlands or other housing options, please contact the Housing Resource Line at 651-554-5751.   Click here for resources.
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Shelter

Families are offered their own private, secure bedrooms and have access to shared community living space.  This includes washer and dryer facility, TV lounges, dining room, computer lab, outdoor playground, and childcare room.

Nutritious Meals

Nutritional meals are offered daily to include continental breakfast, hot lunch, dinner and snacks prepared by professional cooks.  

Education & activities

Dakota Woodlands teaches life skills and connections to resources to help families  maintain permanent housing. The program also includes a variety of activities for the entire family to enjoy.

Basic Needs
Dakota Woodlands (DW) offers a safe and friendly environment for families to transition to sustainable and independent housing.  Clients staying at DW receive nutritious meals, private bedrooms, personal care products, seasonal clothing, and connections to a vast array of resources to ensure success upon leaving shelter.

Supportive Services at the Shelter
Encouragement and person-centered care is at the forefront of Dakota Woodlands supportive services.  DW is part of a specialized care team that partners with Dakota County and several community partners,  connecting families to needed services, resources, and help finding permanent housing.  During their stay, families will have regular meetings with case managers to identify barriers to housing, set goals, get connected to resources, and build the skills needed to gain stability and independence.  Through education and coaching, DW empowers families to sustain independence and overall well-being. 

Dakota Woodlands offers on-site childcare for parents to need to attend meetings/appointments, job interviews, or search for housing. Case Managers will assist working parents to secure child care assistance to ensure they can continue working while their child is in daycare.

DW offers a work program where residents can earn credits for the in-house Store. The store consists of items which include gift cards, household goods, small kitchen appliances, extra bedding, towels, toys, and much more.  The DW store is very popular with clients and is proven to be a great resource. If residents successfully complete jobs around the shelter, our staff can provide reference letters for future employers attesting to their commitment and work ethic.

Connections to Resources For When You Leave Shelter
When a family leaves the shelter, Dakota Woodlands is still here for our families, should they need us. Many families keep in touch, and reach out for resources or advice. 

Dakota Woodlands, 3430 Wescott Woodlands, Eagan, MN 55123 | Telephone: 651-456-9110 |​ www.dakotawoodlands.org