Join Us at the Start with Home Rally: Why Housing Advocacy Matters Now
Alliance Housing invites you to join us as we kick off the 2026 legislative session at the Start with Home Rally. This annual gathering, hosted by affordable housing organizations from across Minnesota, brings together legislators and housing advocates to call on state lawmakers to prioritize housing investments and policies as the legislative session beings.
As the federal government threatens to pull support for Housing First solutions, state level funding is more important than ever. Together, we can reaffirm a simple truth: the need for housing is foundational, and Minnesota must start with home.
What to Expect at the Rally
This year’s rally will highlight legislative priorities that center on expanding, protecting, and investing in housing across the state. Specifically, advocates will call for policies that:
Save and create more homes – Increase housing production and preservation for Minnesotans at all income levels.
Expand access and opportunities – Ensure equitable housing access, tenant protections, and pathways to homeownership.
Secure predictable housing investments – Establish dedicated and ongoing revenue streams for stable housing funding.
Why This Matters Now
The need for affordable, accessible, and stable housing in Minnesota is deeply tied to the overall safety and wellbeing of our communities. Despite this fact, the statewide housing crisis continues to worsen: 28% of Minnesota households spend more than 30% of their income on housing, and more than half of Black Minnesotans, young adults, and lower income residents are now considered housing cost burdened.
While Alliance is dedicated to Minneapolis, we know the shortage extends far beyond the Twin Cities and metro areas, with communities across Greater Minnesota facing major gaps in affordable homes and supportive services.
With the 2026 legislative session beginning on February 17, showing up at this year’s rally is a powerful way to demonstrate to lawmakers that Minnesotans expect bold, sustained action on Housing First policies. As Governor Walz reminded advocates at last year's rally: “Enthusiasm is common, endurance is rare. This is a group of advocates that understands this is not a single budget, this is not a single year, this is not a single house,” underscoring the importance of staying committed.
Alliance Housing remains steadfast in this work, and in these uncertain times, when the safety of our neighbors continues to be threatened, it is essential that we stand together. Alongside our peers and partners, we will continue advancing the policy changes needed to ensure every Minnesotan has a place to call home, and we hope you will join us.
Let’s pack the Capitol Rotunda again and make sure this session Starts With Home!
Rally Details
When: Monday, February 23, 2026
Where: Minnesota State Capitol, 75 Rev Dr Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Saint Paul, MN 55155
Schedule:
- 10:00 AM - Arrival
- 10:30 AM - Rally and Program
Your voice matters. Your presence matters. Because housing is foundational. And Minnesota must start with home.
Questions or want to learn more? Contact Craig Freeman at cfreeman@alliancehousinginc.org, 612-517-2323 for details about joining Alliance Housing at the rally.
Let’s Build Long-Term Stability, One Home at a Time
All who engage in strengthening Alliance are equally valued, whether donor, volunteer, public advocate, board member, resident, or staff, your involvement directly supports safe, dignified housing for those facing the greatest barriers.