Mahube Otwa Community Action is a private, non-profit organization dedicated to supporting the upward economic and social mobility of low-income individuals and families in its service area, which includes Mahnomen, Hubbard, Becker, Otter Tail, and Wadena counties, as well as several additional counties. Guided by a volunteer board of directors, Mahube Otwa Community Action works to empower people to achieve self-sufficiency through a wide variety of programs and services tailored to address the fundamental needs of the community.
Mahube Otwa Community Action provides numerous resources to help people successfully manage and overcome challenges related to housing, health, family, and financial stability. For those struggling with housing insecurity, the organization assists residents facing eviction, needing to find rental accommodations, or requiring repairs such as furnace or water heater maintenance. Support with issues such as paying fuel bills, insulating homes for greater energy efficiency, and rental deposits is also available, ensuring individuals and families are able to maintain stable housing.
The organization is deeply committed to the well-being of families and children. Programs like Head Start and Early Head Start offer comprehensive support to pregnant mothers and families with children from birth to five years old. These programs are designed to foster early childhood development and help prepare young children for kindergarten, while also equipping parents with essential skills, connecting them to affordable, quality child care, and assisting with modifications to child support when needed. Early Learning Scholarships provide further assistance by helping families cover the costs of childcare or early education.
Health and wellness are also central to Mahube Otwa Community Action’s mission. Family Health at Mahube Otwa offers confidential wellness services to men and women, including reproductive health care, STI screening, treatment, and counseling. The agency also provides guidance on securing health insurance and offers Medicare counseling, helping residents navigate the often complex health care landscape. As a partner in health insurance outreach, education, and application assistance, Mahube Otwa is a resource for those seeking coverage through MNSure.
Seniors and individuals with disabilities benefit from services designed to make daily living safer and simpler. Homemaking and Chore Services assist with tasks such as house cleaning, yard maintenance, and transportation to and from doctor appointments, all within handicap accessible environments. Additionally, the organization offers help with food support, legal issues, warm winter clothing, and exercise classes, addressing the broader spectrum of needs faced by the community.
Mahube Otwa Community Action also plays a crucial role in financial empowerment. The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance, or VITA, program offers free tax preparation for low-income households, ensuring participants can maximize their returns and navigate their financial responsibilities with confidence. Coordinated Entry is employed to streamline access to housing and resources for those experiencing homelessness or housing instability.
Rooted in the region, Mahube Otwa Community Action’s commitment is reflected not only in its broad array of services but also in special initiatives such as Mikinaak Gitigaaning (Turtle Garden) on the west side of the Detroit Lakes office, an initiative aimed at fostering community and sustainability. The organization remains steadfast in its mission to uplift community members, helping them tap into resources, acquire new skills, and break the cycle of poverty for themselves and future generations.