Cairn Housing
Crisis Line
(612) 718-1701
Connect
For more information on Cairn Housing, please contact Jake McLean.
About Cairn
Cairn provides permanent supportive housing in Hennepin County and across the suburban metro, including Anoka, Washington, Dakota, Scott and Carver counties. The program provides scattered site housing for youth between the ages of 18 and 24 who are experiencing homelessness and have a developmental disability, mental health diagnosis, or chemical dependency. Through Cairn, young people are supported in finding housing that meets their needs in the communities they call home.
Cairn was co-founded by youth leaders who had lived experience of homelessness in the suburban metro and participated in The Link’s programs. Young people chose to call the program Cairn, a term used by hikers to mark a trail and indicate “you are on the right path”, to capture the symbolic milestone of where a young person’s journey transitions from homelessness into housing. Youth leaders on the Housing Advisory Committee continue to provide leadership and oversight to the program.
Services
Cairn is active in our commitment of supporting young people in successfully maintaining stable housing. Our team engages with young people in housing search, case management, and supportive services offered through weekly home visits with young people. Participants identify and select the services and goals that are important to maintaining their housing and wellness.
Referral Process
Youth are referred to the program through the Hennepin County and/or SMAC Coordinated Entry systems in Anoka, Carver, Ramsey, Scott, and Washington Counties. Coordinated Entry Assessments and updates can be made at shelters, drop-in centers or by connecting with an outreach worker. Youth in Hennepin County can connect with The Link’s Street Outreach Team by calling or texting (612) 718-1701. Youth in the Suburban Metro can connect with The Link’s Dakota County Housing Advocate by calling (612) 946-0274.