Cornerstone was founded in 1983 by a group of dedicated volunteers who recognized the need for domestic violence services in the Hennepin County suburbs. This was a time before significant public funding for domestic violence services and a time when this issue was rarely even discussed. Since these forward-thinking and caring volunteers started Cornerstone, we have expanded in size, scope and geographic footprint.
Our 40th anniversary is a chance to honor those who made this growth possible: volunteers, donors, board members, staff and the community. It is also an opportunity to reflect back on the strength and accomplishments of our agency and those we serve. This month, we highlight Cornerstone’s statewide Day One® program.
Day One®: Minnesota’s Call to Safety
Day One®, a statewide program network of over 90 Minnesota domestic violence, sexual violence, anti-trafficking, youth advocacy and general crime agencies, became part of Cornerstone in 2005. Day One ensures victims across the state can get connected to safety and services with just one call, text, email or online chat.
The program’s call center hosts the Minnesota Day One Crisis Line and the Minnesota Crime Victim Support Line with 24/7 telephonic interpreter services, operating a secure online database that provides real-time information regarding available bed space and services among network members. Day One is the recognized first point of contact for Minnesota’s No Wrong Door/Safe Harbors Law, ensuring sexually exploited youth have access to support, safety and shelter.
Day One also partners with ThinkSelf to better equip domestic violence and sexual violence organizations across the state to serve Deaf and hard of hearing survivors. Day One’s Minnesota Alliance for Family & Animal Safety (MNAFAS) program provides safe temporary foster care for the pets of families and individuals experiencing violence.
Pictured above: Day One recently celebrated Minneapolis’s Pride Event on June 24-25, 2023, with Cornerstone staff, volunteers, and network partners hosting a tent and connecting with community members.
In just 2022 alone, Day One Call Center responded to 33,033 calls, texts and chat messages from people seeking safety, resources, and support. Clearly, Day One is a pivotal program for making Minnesota a safer place to live, and it is a program revered across the country.
MN Day One® Crisis Line Call: 1.866.223.1111 Text: 612.399.9995
You must be logged in to post a comment.