MAPLEWOOD, Minn. — Relationship violence is often difficult to discuss.
But the local non-profit, Tubman, has been offering services to thousands of survivors for decades to provide services to those in need.
Last fall, it wanted to do more and kicked off a campaign to raise $8.5 million for things like new windows, a roof and a commercial kitchen, along with a pet sanctuary, housed in the old laundry room of the monastery in Maplewood it runs out of.
Research shows that violence towards people and animals often goes hand in hand. Nearly 50% of domestic violence survivors delay leaving because of fear for their pet's safety and nearly 25% return to an abusive situation.
"He is bossy, he's sassy, he runs my whole life," said Veronika Lantseva about her dog, Toby. She loves him like family and when she escaped an abusive relationship, never thought about leaving her previous pet behind.
"I wasn't sure what was going to happen to my dog and that was not a risk I was willing to take," said Lantseva.
She would find safety, and years later, is now giving back at Tubman, volunteering in various roles, including for the pet haven.
On Wednesday, she and other volunteers set up for a special ceremony to break ground on the unique idea - that's the first of its kind in the Twin Cities.
"It's going to be a game changer," said Lantseva. "Often times, for survivors, they have to make that impossible choice between staying in a home where they're not safe, and leaving their pet behind with their abuser who could hurt their pet when they realize they're gone."
Creating a place for pets in shelters provides a sense of comfort and security for survivors. It also bridges an important gap and allows families to remain whole and fill an important need.
"We knew we needed to do something based on the stories that we were hearing over and over again from survivors," said Jennifer Polzin, Tubman's CEO, who says the short-term option is a still a full-service refuge.
New renderings show it can house eight dogs and eight cats for up to 30 days while their owners seek housing for themselves or other temporary care for pets. The space will provide round-the-clock monitoring, routine veterinary care and enrichment areas. It encourages survivors to enhance healing while maintaining a bond with their pet.
The costly renovations are part of that year-long campaign to make critical upgrades to the whole building. Polzin says they're reached 96% of their goal so far. Some other services Tubman provides includes legal, education and mental and chemical health programs.
"By even asking the question if they have a companion animal they're concerned about, that's one way to signal it's ok and normalize the conversation," said Polzin.
To learn more about the campaign and how you can help, click here.
And if you are in need of help or services, please call Tubman's 24-hour crisis & resource line at 612-825-0000.
Help is also available by calling 800-799-7233 or texting START to 88788 to be connected with someone from the National Domestic Violence Hotline. The hotline includes more options for support and identifiers of abuse on its website.
For Minnesota residents, Cornerstone MN also offers resources and safe housing for domestic abuse survivors and crime victims. Call 1-866-223-1111 or chat online with the crisis hotline.