Crisis Line: 651.772.1611   

During the Fuerza Unida listening process, community women expressed a desire for a community locale where basic information and resources would be available. Recognizing that lack of information can cause feelings of isolation, frustration, and stress for immigrants, the planning group recommended the establishment of centers where they could assist fellow Latinos to find the information they seek.

Our first Centro de Información y Recursos was opened at Mercado Central (Lake & Bloomington in Minneapolis) in December 2001 and has exceeded everyone's expectations! The Mercado merchants, understanding the value of the proposed center, invited us to be the sole nonprofit organization located there. Because Mercado Central is truly a neighborhood gathering place, the location is familiar and accessible. Equipped with three computers, the center is staffed primarily by trained bilingual volunteers who assist clients in using the Internet and locating resources.

7663 visits to our Centros were recorded in 2004!

We compiled the center's database based on the types of information that users requested. Clients are often looking for answers that they have been unable to obtain from other sources: information on housing, employment, ESL and computer classes, schools, and medical services. Center volunteers research the data in order to make available the most effective and trustworthy information.

There's much more than database information available at the center. Clients often bring English mailings or forms for translation help. Center staff has also assisted clients in knowing how to work within systems--such as drafting a letter to a former landlord to receive a damage deposit. Volunteers train clients to use the Internet; email is available and often used to connect with friends and extended family in countries of origin.

The Information and Resource Center has proven to be an extremely effective means of diminishing the isolation and stress that are often felt by immigrant Latinas and their families. Initiated by community women and based in communities, this strategic center builds connections for Latinos--within their communities and beyond.

If you wish to contact us about:

Centros de Información y Recursos... write us at ourwork@casadeesperanza.org

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