Isuroon

Isuroon, a nonprofit organization, is committed to building social connectedness and self-sufficiency among Somali women and girls, enabling them to lead healthier and more productive lives both in Minnesota and globally. The mission of Isuroon is multifaceted, encompassing various initiatives aimed at empowering these women.

One of the key areas of focus for Isuroon is food security. They operate a Halal Food Shelf, which is community-led and community-funded, distributing essential food items to those in need. The food shelf, led by Asha Ahmed, Leyla Ahmed, and Mohamud Abdi, has expanded its reach over the years, now distributing from multiple locations, including Highwood Hills School in St. Paul and Umatul Islam Center. Isuroon's commitment to community support is the driving force behind its success, relying heavily on donations and the kindness of volunteers to efficiently distribute food. In 2023, the food shelf saw exponential growth, distributing over 800,000 pounds of food to over 10,000 families across Minnesota.

In addition to food security, Isuroon also addresses housing needs. Their Housing Services & Programs are dedicated to providing essential support and guidance to individuals and families seeking stable housing and homeownership opportunities. As a HUD-certified Local Housing Counseling Agency (LHCA), Isuroon offers a comprehensive range of services, including financial workshops, predatory lending and fair housing workshops, pre-purchase homebuyer education workshops, rental counseling, and eviction prevention. Isuroon serves a wide range of clients, including families, adults, youth, persons with disabilities, and older adults, who often face barriers such as housing instability, language barriers, accessibility issues, and financial illiteracy.

Isuroon's mission extends beyond food security and housing. They also prioritize mental health and women's wellness. In response to the unmet mental health needs of the East African community, Isuroon introduced mental health services in 2020. Their team of professionals educates and empowers community members regarding mental health, recognizing that addressing mental health concerns is crucial to achieving overall health and happiness. Isuroon's mental health services are culturally sensitive, tailored to the diverse backgrounds and experiences within the East African community. They offer a range of services, from counseling to support groups, to meet the unique needs of their community members. Isuroon's goal is to create a supportive environment where individuals can flourish, free from the constraints of mental health stigma and unmet needs.

In summary, Isuroon's mission is to empower Somali women and girls to lead healthier, more productive lives. They achieve this through various initiatives, including food security, housing services, and mental health and women's wellness programs. Isuroon's commitment to community support is evident in their community-led and community-funded Halal Food Shelf, their HUD certification, and their culturally sensitive mental health services. Their services are designed to meet the unique needs of their community members, fostering a sense of safety, well-being, and empowerment.