Esperanza United

Rooted in safety, growing toward hope

Every survivor deserves a safe place to heal. For more than 40 years, El Refugio has been that place for survivors of gender-based violence. This Give to the Max Day, help us raise $10,000 so all survivors have a safe place to heal.

Our Minnesota roots run deep

Esperanza United has its roots in El Refugio, a home where survivors of gender-based violence reach safety. It is where familias can open the door to futures filled with possibility, joy, healing, and hope.

This year has shown the world what we’ve always known: In Minnesota, we protect our neighbors. We keep our communities safe. And safe communities start with healing, the cornerstone of Esperanza United's history.

Rooted in hope since 1982

When someone walks through the doors of El Refugio, they find more than a place to stay. Survivors find someone who speaks their language, understands their culture, and walks alongside them as they rebuild. Last year, El Refugio helped 334 survivors and their children put down new roots. 

“Sometimes it’s a lot to keep up with. One person is handling this, another is handling that, and I just get confused about who to call for what, so thank you for handling it all.” -Refugio former resident

Help new roots take hold

Healing takes time, and it takes a safe place to grow. Your support makes transformation like this possible: it connects survivors with the resources and support they need to move forward. You empower an entire network of professionals providing culturally responsive care to survivors of gender-based violence. 

Healing, safety, and hope can come from seemingly ordinary sources. For example:

$25: Dinner for a survivor in transition.

$50: A full tank of gas for a family moving to the Refugio.

$100: Groceries that help Latine parents reconnect with their children and cultural heritage.

$250: Catches up a survivor on their utility bill. 

$500: Two survivors secure their homes with new locks.

$1000: One month of rent for a survivor and their kids.

Every survivor deserves a safe place to heal. Together, we can create a future where every survivor has one.