New LSS Crisis Nursery Location Creates Greater Access to Services for Families

The new location for the Duluth Crisis Nursery, a service of Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota (LSS), is providing greater access to services that promote family and child wellbeing. Since relocating in October from the Lake and First Building to the Center for Changing Lives at 1422 East Superior Street, the Crisis Nursery supported 170 children.

Staff at the Crisis Nursery support families facing crises with short-term childcare or supplies for children. Other LSS services at the center include transitional housing for youth, a teen health center and youth support groups. 

“Our new location has helped bring our services together,” said Melanie Hansen, Crisis Nursery program manager. “The space is beautiful, and it allows better access to services for all families in the community. We are grateful to be co-located with our other youth and family services.” 

The nursery has provided children in Duluth a safe, stable environment during times of family crisis since 1994. Crisis Nursery services include short-term emergency child care, and referrals to additional community resources. This service also provides families in need with supplies such as diapers, children’s clothes and other necessities. Families can access Crisis Nursery services by calling 218.302.6879.

As the need for this vital service grows in the community, Lutheran Social Service is seeking additional child care providers to offer short-term child care for families experiencing crises. Providers who are interested in supporting Duluth-area families can contact Melanie Hansen at 218.529.2246 or melanie.hansen@lssmn.org.

Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota began in 1865 when a Lutheran pastor and his congregation opened an orphanage for children near Red Wing in southeastern Minnesota. Today, with 2,300 employees and 8,000 volunteers, LSS helps one in 65 Minnesotans through services that inspire hope, change lives, and build community. Statewide, the organization seeks to foster safe and supportive homes for children, restore health and wellness in families, empower people with disabilities to live the lives they imagine, and promote health, independence and quality of life for older adults. For comprehensive information about the work of LSS, visit www.lssmn.org.