These organizations assist with eviction defense, understanding notices, lease issues, security deposits, repairs, and other landlord-tenant concerns. Most services are free for income-eligible households.

• Legal Assistance of Olmsted – Free legal services for tenants facing eviction or other housing issues such as unsafe conditions, deposits, and lease disputes. Income eligibility usually applies.
• Southern Minnesota Regional Legal Services (SMRLS) – Provides no-cost legal representation and advice in eviction cases and landlord disputes.
• HOME Line – Statewide tenant advocacy organization offering legal information, tenant rights education, and help navigating rental problems, including eviction prevention. Tenant hotline and online resources available.
• LAOC Eviction Prevention Project - Tenants in Olmsted County who are facing eviction can receive free help to:

• Negotiate a settlement with a landlord
• Find government or community funding to “pay and stay”
• Seek dismissal and expungement of an eviction record

Tip: Many legal aid programs offer walk-in clinics or phone hotlines for quick advice. Call ahead to confirm hours, language access, and income requirements.

If you need financial help to catch up on rent or utilities, these programs may be able to help prevent an eviction filing.

• Three Rivers Community Action – Rental and utility assistance programs and referrals for Rochester area residents. Address: 4001 West River Parkway NW, Suite 100, Rochester, MN 55901
• The Salvation Army – Rochester - Emergency housing and rental assistance support Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. Phone: 507-288-3663 Email: rochestersocialservices@usc.salvationarmy.org
• United Way of Southeast Minnesota – 2-1-1 Connects residents to emergency rent assistance, utility help, and community resources. Call: 2-1-1 (available 24/7)
• Empowering Connections and Housing Outreach (ECHO) Center - Housing navigation and coordinated entry services Phone: 507-328-7175
• Family Promise Rochester (Hope at Home Fund) - The Hope at Home Fund was created by Family Promise Rochester along with community partners to respond to this moment with speed, care, and compassion.

City of Rochester – Housing & Neighborhood Services

Resources for Renters

The City requires all rental properties to be registered and regularly inspected. Rentals must meet local housing and safety codes.

• Report concerns about unsafe or unlicensed rental properties by contacting 311

Olmsted County Housing Authority

May offer housing vouchers or programs that support long-term housing stability.

Youth & Safe Housing Support

Safe Harbor – Rochester Area

24-hour confidential information line for youth who have been exploited or are at risk. Provides connections to emergency shelter, supportive housing, and case management.

24-Hour Line: 507-316-8273

• Respond quickly to any notice from your landlord or the court—deadlines matter.
• Seek legal advice early; even brief guidance can help you understand your options.
• Apply for rental assistance right away if you are behind on rent.
• Keep records of payments, repair requests, and all communication with your landlord.
• Attend all court dates and ask for an interpreter if needed.

• 2-1-1 – Call anytime for immediate connections to rent help, utilities, food, and other services.
• Minnesota Courts Self-Help Centers – Forms and guidance for tenants representing themselves in court: https://mncourts.gov
• Local libraries may also offer computers, printing and help locating forms.

No, it is not a standard practice for ICE or CBP to notify local law enforcement of their plans.

No, they are not obligated to provide a report following deployment in a city.

No, but the Rochester Police Department would be responsive to any incoming 911 calls.

No. Federal policy allows ICE officers to wear masks.