Lack of affordable housing and homelessness is a harsh reality across the country, including for many in the Rochester area. How is our community responding to the need for affordable homes for seniors, families, and people experiencing hardships?

Our guest speaker, JoMarie Leth Morris, will give us a local housing update, including an overview of the​ 2025 Olmsted County Comprehensive Housing Study​ and the collaborative work of the Coalition for Rochester Area Housing (The Coalition) to address our communities' housing needs. The Coalition is a cross-sector partnership of the City of Rochester, Olmsted County, Rochester Area Foundation, Mayo Clinic, and Destination Medical Center.

JoMarie Leth Morris grew up on a farm near Byron, Minnesota. She is an honors graduate of William Mitchell College of Law and served as a partner at Klampe, Delehanty & Morris law firm in Rochester for 18 years practicing civil litigation and immigration. JoMarie’s passion for affordable housing is born from her experience leading efforts to build and launch a Jeremiah Program campus for single mothers and their children to disrupt generational poverty in Southeast Minnesota.

We hope you can join us to learn more about our local housing challenges and progress. This event is free and open to the public. The schedule includes time after the presentation to socialize with fellow League members and supporters, and to enjoy a variety of holiday baked goods, coffee, and apple cider. Bring your friends!