District Work Period Recap | April 1–5, 2024

Here’s a look behind the scenes of our district work period last week. I first ran for Congress on the promise of co-governance to ensure every single decision is rooted in community. I’m here to amplify the voices of those on the ground and to ensure our policies and investments align with our communities’ real needs and priorities. I’m proud to champion this approach each and every day.

Monday

I was honored to attend Masjid An-Nur’s iftar with Imam Makram El-Amin and the greater Minneapolis Muslim community on Monday night to enjoy this special and sacred time during Ramadan. My team and I were able to meet with many residents to talk about how we can work together to solve problems, whether at home or across the globe. We also discussed the needs of the Muslim community as it continues to grow quickly in our district.

Tuesday

I started the day by visiting the Richfield College Experience Program that prepares students for success after high school. As a former nutrition educator, I understand the importance of building an environment of support and understanding to better serve students’ needs. That’s why I was proud to see how this program focuses on meeting students where they are while investing in strong relationships between faculty and students.

I went to Richfield’s Wood Lake Nature Center where we celebrated the $3 million our office secured for the project. The center provides hands-on experience of our state’s beautiful nature to children across our district — including many who may not have the opportunity otherwise.

Wednesday

I met with seniors residing at Village Green Apartments in Fridley. For many of these residents living on fixed incomes, the rising costs of groceries, rent, utilities, and other daily necessities are making it increasingly difficult to make ends meet. They worry about affording their prescription drug coverage and health insurance premiums on top of other medical expenses. The future of Social Security and Medicare programs is also a source of anxiety. Protecting vital programs like Social Security, expanding affordable housing options, and lowering healthcare costs for seniors is a top priority of mine.

I met with the Minneapolis Parks and Recreation Board staff to receive updates on North Commons Park and presented them with a $2 million check to support the center. Building strong community centers is vital to help our neighborhoods thrive.

I met with members of the Ukrainian American Community to connect with their Advisory Committee and hear updates on the Refugee Services Team’s work to support new arrivals from Ukraine. The Refugee Services Team has expanded significantly, and they now host weekly seminars and training for the Ukrainians affected by the war. We also discussed our shared priority to provide Ukraine with much needed aid.

I ended the day with our community by celebrating bringing over $54 million in Community Project Funding back home to our district. It was such a special opportunity to meet with recipients and supporters from all three past CPF cycles and hear updates about their progress. I am grateful for all the hard work that went into securing these critical investments.

Thursday

I visited Literacy Minnesota and learned more about their critical work empowering adults to develop literacy skills needed to thrive. Their programs don’t just benefit individual learners — they strengthen entire communities by opening doors to better jobs, education, and opportunities.

I received a tour of the MPHA Family Expansion Multiplex. This multiplex will allow for more affordable family housing units and marks the largest new-unit development for the agency in nearly two decades. MPHA uses a modular construction approach which has resulted in less noise and fewer neighborhood disruptions.

I held a town hall that was attended by Mayor Wendy Webster, Ramsey County Commissioner Mary Jo McGuire, and constituents from MN-05. The robust turnout and engagement from community members was truly inspiring. Your voices and personal stories help guide my work to better address the real needs in our community.

Friday

I started the day with a visit to Evergreen Park Elementary School in Brooklyn Center. During my time at Evergreen Park, I had the chance to tour three different 3rd grade classrooms, engaging directly with the students and observing their hands-on STEM learning.

That’s a wrap!

In Service,

Ilhan Omar