Launch Ministry was founded in 2009 as a response to the increasing needs of 18-29 year-olds as they navigated the complex realities of adulthood without the resources and relationships necessary to thrive.

Today, Launch is a vibrant, multicultural space located in downtown Chaska which engages the needs of ALL young adults in our community in culturally competent ways. We invite young adults to bring their whole selves and to believe that they will be seen, heard and known. For a more comprehensive history of the beginnings of Launch Ministry we invite you to meet our staff.

Vision

The leader in launching in-crisis 18-29 year-olds into successful adulthood

Mission

What:  Provide a safe space and empower unstably housed and in-crisis young adults with the tools, resources and support needed to transition successfully towards adulthood—enabling life-saving outcomes.

How:  We focus on relationship and trust building, advocacy and navigation of the numerous complex agencies and systems with which young adults must engage to achieve success.

110 W. Second Street Chaska, MN 55318

Located in downtown Chaska, this is the center of program delivery and the public face of Launch in the community.  A safe place where unsheltered and in-crisis young adults hang out with peers, volunteers, and Launch staff. Most interaction between staff and young adults happens here in 1-on-1 and group sessions. Services delivered through the drop in include:

• A hot meal (postponed during COVID)
• Clothes, Food & Personal Products Shelf Services
• Personal Assessments 
• Housing Assessments 
• Adulting Game Check-In 
• Referral to public/private resources 

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Note: Due to COVID-19 restrictions, drop in is OPEN, but with the following protections in place:

• Only one participant in the space at a time
• Must wear a mask (if you do not have one, we will provide one for you)
• Temperature will be checked upon entry and no one with a fever will be allowed to enter
• Physical distancing rules will apply and you will be asked to maintain 6 foot distance from staff while in the space

If you are new to Launch, you can click the link below to access programs and services, including weekly supply packs and gift cards.

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Launch ensures young adults experiencing homelessness have access to safe, high quality and affordable housing. We do this through a variety of relationships/partnerships with state organizations and housing providers.  For some youth, that includes participation in the following programs:

Emergency Shelter: Young adults experiencing immediate crisis may be able to access a hotel voucher to gain a safe place to sleep. Program participants will receive food, shelter and access to case management to move toward stable housing. Note: There is usually a waiting list for this program. Click “Get Help” to schedule a crisis intake and we will help navigate you toward housing solutions.

Housing Support Program: A state funded rental subsidy program serving youth adults who have been without shelter for over a year. Launch supports youth in securing a rental property in the community, manages their rental subsidy and provides case management to maintain stable housing.

West Creek Apartments: A partnership with Launch and the Community Asset Foundation. A Chaska apartment building opening in early 2023  containing 19 efficiency units designed to provide supportive services and affordable rent to youth experiencing homelessness.