Our Story

Founded in Christ

The Dwelling Place was founded in 1998 by Diane Stores and was born out of her passion to make sure women and children had a safe place of refuge where they could find rest, hope, and healing. While living in an abusive marriage, she left many times during the night with her children. Unable to find a safe place for them to stay, they would have no option but to return to their home. Once she was able to leave this situation, she wanted to do what she could to make sure other women did not have to face this challenge.

The Dwelling Place opened in a single-family home on the east side of St. Paul. In 2001, The Dwelling Place received the use of two St. Paul homes, providing housing for seven women and their 10 children. In 2013, The Dwelling Place purchased two homes in the North Metro. Since that time, we have consolidated all housing to the North Metro and now have the equivalent of eight single-family homes with capacity to support up to 57 women and their children at one time.

Jenna Perez became The Dwelling Place Executive Director in October 2023.