Adapting to Evolving Community Needs – Neighborhood House

Since 1897, Neighborhood House has supported thousands of refugees, immigrants and others in transition or crisis. The organization provides basic needs support, from food to housing, and education and enrichment programming for all ages. Its Adult Education (AE) program offers classes in citizenship, continuing education, career readiness, and English skills to adult learners.

Recent immigration enforcement efforts significantly affected the Saint Paul community. Working with local partners, Neighborhood House implemented a Rapid Response Emergency Delivery service in January 2026 to help local families with groceries, laundry, and basic necessities.

Simultaneously, AE staff reached out to learners. They found that students still wanted to attend class but were afraid to leave their homes. The AE team, flexible and adept at teaching online, quickly shifted to offering HyFlex or fully online classes. But beyond program delivery, AE staff asked learners about their needs. “Do you have enough food? Do you need help with laundry? Can I register you for our Emergency Delivery service?”

The Adult Education team showcases the spirit of Neighborhood House: listening to community feedback, responding to evolving needs, and caring for the whole family. Neighborhood House is committed to providing the emergency and long-term support that families need—continuing to work for a future in which everyone who calls Saint Paul home can live and thrive here.