AN URGENT NEED FOR KIDS

As the number of children struggling with mental health issues continues to rise, Minnesota’s current system is overwhelmed and ill-equipped to meet their needs. Without adequate alternatives, many families are forced to bring children to emergency departments, where they often remain for weeks or even months. 

In 2023 alone, over 1,000 youth were boarded in Twin Cities emergency rooms, with many staying for 3-4 months at a time. This practice has cost Minnesota hospitals $500 million in unpaid costs. To make matters worse, the state has been losing vital residential care beds for children. Since 2005, 888 mental health crisis beds for children have been eliminated.

A CRISIS THAT CAN’T BE IGNORED

Experts from MHealth agree that increasing available beds, such as those at MORA’s Youth Crisis Stabilization Homes, is the most effective solution to this boarding crisis.

“Over the last two years, the scenes playing out in emergency rooms at health systems across the state are some of the most challenging situations our teams have faced working in health care. Children are left by their caregivers, in emergency rooms for days, weeks and months. This is referred to as ‘boarding… Simply put, this is a violation of their human rights.” Official M Health Fairview statement

LOOKING AHEAD

MORA is raising funds to open two more homes in 2026 and are actively seeking community partners to help us create these vital spaces for youth in need. Together, we can make a real difference in the lives of children facing mental health crises.