Resources
Housing
Property Improvements
The Community Development Department and the Olmsted County Housing and Redevelopment Authority (OCHRA) administer housing rehabilitation loan programs which provide affordable financing (deferred loans) to qualified homeowners. For more information contact the Community Development Department or the OCHRA at 507-328-7150.
Home Ownership
Three Rivers Community Action Agency and the Olmsted County Housing and Redevelopment Authority (OCHRA) provide classes that help people work toward the goal of homeownership. Three Rivers: 507-316-0610 or online. OCHRA: 507.328.7143 or online.
Building Safety
Refer to www.rochestermn.gov/departments/building-safety for information on acquiring permits, rental certificates, and downloadable brochures with tips on deck construction or basement refinishing.
Yard-Waste Compost Site
Olmsted County operates a yard-waste compost site that accepts leaves, grass clippings and other acceptable items to help people who are unable to compost leaves and grass in their own yards. There is no charge to drop off leaves and grass clippings at the Olmsted County Compost Site. The site is located on the east side of Olmsted County Recycling Center Plus at 305 Silver Creek Road NE in Rochester. Small quantities of trees and brush can be disposed at the Olmsted County Recycling Center Plus.
Clean Streets Means Clean Streams
Stormwater runoff does not go to the Water Reclamation Plant for treatment – rather, it runs to our rivers, lakes and streams, often without treatment. As stormwater moves across the landscape, it collects dirt, debris, and chemicals. This pollution is carried through storm sewers and ditches to our waterways. Untreated stormwater can be harmful to people and aquatic plants and animals. Your actions on the land have a great impact on the quality of our surface waters. Report water pollution concerns to (507) 328-2440. https://www.rochestermn.gov/government/departments/public-works/stormwater-management
Family Service Rochester
Family Service Rochester (FSR) is a community-based organization providing mental health, senior independence, child well-being, and family stability services. Services include counseling for all ages, Family Access Center, and Father Project. Older adults can receive support through Meals on Wheels, Senior Café, and grocery shopping as wells as transportation, friendly visit, and chore services. FSR also offers a variety of volunteer opportunities. For information regarding these and other FSR services contact 507-287-2010 or familyservicerochester.org.
Intercultural Mutual Assistance Association
Intercultural Mutual Assistance Association (IMAA) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit that primarily serves refugee and immigrant populations. The agency’s mission, “building bridges between cultures by empowering individuals to create a diverse, inclusive, and equitable community” is reflected through its culturally responsive programs and services to help new Americans overcome the barriers and challenges to achieve self-sufficiency and rebuild a new life.
IMAA’s programs include employment services, victim services, interpreting and translating, community engagement services including the Match Program and Meadow Park Initiative, community health work and MNsure navigation, and early childhood development. Also, the organization offers diversity and inclusion training for businesses interested in increasing cultural competence and inclusive practices in their work strategies.
United Way
Need help? Dial 2-1-1. Find hope.
Connect to help. United Way 2-1-1 is your community help line.
A Litter Bit Better
One week, at the end of April, service groups, businesses, scout troops, schools, faith groups, and neighborhoods pitch in to make a Litter Bit Better, a annual event in the City of Rochester. Trash and recycling bags are provided. Just pick a location, pick a date, and pick it up!
Registration information, maps and more can be found at www.RNeighbors.org/ litterbitbetter.