Fresh Start at Great River Landing
At Great River Landing in Minneapolis, a 72-unit apartment complex for recently incarcerated men, the Beacon Interfaith Housing Collaborative and 180 Degrees provides meals, social opportunities, employment readiness and placement support, life-skills coaching, and mental health care. Founded in 1971 by a man who spent 20 years cycling through the criminal justice system, it began as a haven for men exiting incarceration. At present, it offers two reentry programs prioritizing safe housing and case management for ex-offenders.
The photo shows St. Markans and other volunteers collecting bedding for the residents at Great River.
In February 2026 St. Markan Linda Brandt (standing, front row, 3rd from the left) spoke about her experience working in the Fresh Start initiative as part of the blog for the 180 Degrees organization. Click here.
At present, there are two reentry programs prioritizing safe housing and case management for ex-offenders. The goal of 180 Degrees is to break down systemic barriers leading to unsafe living conditions, abusive relationships, and cycles of incarceration. In the past year, it served 2,533 Minnesota youth and adults.
The building is located in the North Loop at at 813 N 5th St. Comprised of volunteers from Saint Mark’s and elsewhere, our "Fresh Start" group meets for lunch and a program at Great River Landing on the fourth Tuesday of every month 12:00PM.
Forthcoming dates:
Fresh Start at Great River Landing
April 28 @ 12:00 pm - 1:30 pmFresh Start at Great River Landing
May 26 @ 12:00 pm - 1:30 pmFresh Start at Great River Landing
June 23 @ 12:00 pm - 1:30 pmFresh Start at Great River Landing
July 28 @ 12:00 pm - 1:30 pm
For questions about the Fresh Start group contact Linda Brandt.