Eagle’s Healing Nest is a non-profit organization committed to meeting the needs of our veterans, service members and their families who suffer from the invisible wounds of war.
Extensive community efforts by local businesses, service organizations, and individuals have started the work to convert three of the old, unused buildings that were originally part of the MN State Hospital System in Anoka to housing for homeless veterans. Cottage 2 opened in December 2017 and currently houses 22 male veterans, with room for 30. Work is underway to open a women’s building, Cottage 4 in April 2018 with housing for 34 female veterans. The third building, Cottage 3 when ready will house families.
One of the significant needs is room to support the physical wellness and healing for the veterans. The Anoka Rotary is committed to creating and supporting the Rotary Wellness Room, which will be located in the Women’s Building, Cottage 4. A comprehensive plan and design for the development of two connected rooms in the lower level of the building, the purchase of needed equipment, the training of staff and residents on the use of equipment, and an on-going plan for volunteer support for classes and maintenance of these rooms is being developed. One of the rooms will be an open area room for yoga, aerobic classes, and other group experiences. The other room will house equipment such as a weight system, rowing machine, ellipticals, treadmill, stair steps, and kettle balls for veterans to rebuild and enhance their physical wellness. The Anoka Rotary is summited a District Grant Proposal to help with the funding of this project and seeking partners to expand and enhance this effort.
