The Salvation Army Harbor Light Center, Minneapolis — Local services in Minneapolis

I spent time at The Salvation Army shelter, and although the experience had its ups and downs, it was ultimately a life-changing chapter in my journey. This shelter, like any, is what you make of it, but what stood out most to me was the support and resources available if you're open to them.

I had the chance to bounce back and work on myself thanks to the people who genuinely cared. The staff, including Chop, Cory, Terrance, Ronnie, Aaron, Leslie, Darlene, Karmen, Gabriella, and Milton, made a huge difference. They went above and beyond to provide a sense of stability and encouragement when I needed it most. The kitchen staff always made sure we had meals, and security helped maintain a safe environment for everyone.

Through all the challenges, I was encouraged to come out of my shell and embrace the opportunities offered. They showed me the resources I needed to not only survive but thrive—whether it was finding employment, securing housing, or just knowing where to turn for help. The other residents, who I bunked with, also played a part in my recovery. We all shared struggles, but together, we were able to lean on one another in ways that truly helped me grow.

I'm sharing this review because I believe in giving credit where it's due. The Salvation Army gave me a chance when I needed it most, and while it's a homeless shelter at its core, it's also a place where people can rebuild. For those who find themselves in similar circumstances, remember, it's up to you to make the most of it.

I hope I never find myself in such a position again, but I’m truly grateful for the experience and the people who helped me get back on my feet. Thank you to everyone who made my journey a...

A lot of people have been sheltered from the storm so to speak because of this place and I for one am happy for it being here. It houses close to 800 plus people who would otherwise have to sleep outside. Most of these people come from a shattered past and even if it is self inflicted the staff do a superb job of not critically judging them and carries on the Spirit of the founder of the Salvation Army in ways that exemplifies the cold truth we are all Human and we fall short of our source of Divinity some farther than others. Grace is shown through the determination of our Divine Source not by how we determine it or discern what we feel the Scriptures are suppossed to teach us. This place not alone in my mind but a front-runner amongst a group of places is a shining example of the logistics involved in displaying the L.I.F.E. principle taught by the great teacher Jesus. Aka the Love Is For Everyone...

I did an experiment and stayed the night here. It's worse then I thought it would be. I called the morning of the night I was to stay to "reserve" a bed and when I got there I tried telling the staff that but was treated very rudely. I was put in a room with NO heat, and this is January in Minnesota!! After waiting about an hour they let me and the others waiting sign in. Then we were escorted to a big chapel area were they had 50 yr old mats laid out on the floor and we were told that we were only allowed one blanket. The blankets and the mats on the floor were so run down and nasty words really can't explain. Minneapolis needs to rethink how we are treating our homeless. Something really has to be done about this. And they should really think about hiring some people that really care about...