Lewis House History
A safe haven for you and your loved ones
B. Robert Lewis House opened its doors on August 28, 1979, near the site of today’s Lewis House in Eagan. Leaders named the shelter after late Senator B. Robert Lewis, who authored legislation to support women experiencing abuse and prevent family violence. He also secured funding for a statewide program serving battered women and their families.
Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding helped purchase the original home. Neighbors welcomed the shelter and made it their mission to support and protect the families staying there. During its first year, Lewis House provided safe housing for 41 women and 64 children.
In 1985, 360 Communities broke ground on the current Lewis House in Eagan. When the shelter opened in 1986, it became the first shelter in the United States built specifically for battered women and their children. Supporters fully paid for the facility before it opened its doors.
In 1990, the donation of a church rectory allowed 360 Communities to open a second Lewis House in Inver Grove Heights. In 2001, the organization relocated the shelter to Hastings after receiving the Guardian Angels rectory as a gift. The move expanded 360 Communities’ ability to serve families experiencing domestic violence in rural communities.
In 2023, 360 Communities consolidated its shelters into the one Eagan location in preparation for a capital campaign to build a new shelter that will include greater accessibility, apartment-style living, and a Survivor Support Center.
How we can help
Frequently Asked Questions
If you would like to speak with a member of our staff, we are available 24/7 at (651) 452-7288. You can also review our frequently asked questions and answers.
Lewis House Shelter
Lewis House is a safe haven for victims of domestic and sexual violence.
If you need support, call the Lewis House today, 24/7, at (651) 452-7288 and our staff will help.
All services are free and confidential.
Did you know that the Lewis House is named after the late State Senator B. Robert Lewis, who championed violence prevention and intervention work in Minnesota?
We are always looking for ways to improve our services. If you stayed at the Lewis House and recently departed, please consider filling out our survey.
Services Beyond Shelter
Not all survivors want or need shelter. We can meet you where it works best for you.
Sexual Violence Services
You do not need to cope with sexual violence alone. We can help.
Support Groups
Community Outreach Youth Ambassadors (COYA)
COYA is a supportive and empowering space for youth impacted by sexual and domestic violence to connect, heal, and strengthen their voices.
Survivor Support Dog
360 Communities was the first domestic violence agency in the state to use trained dogs to support survivors.
40-Hour Advocacy Training
360 Communities’ 40-Hour Advocacy Training allows attendees to gain a greater understanding of domestic and sexual violence while equipping them with the foundational knowledge and skills to be an advocate through interactive activities, discussions, and a variety of content.
Education & Resources
Violence prevention begins with all of us. 360 Communities educates the public about the causes of domestic and sexual violence and works upstream to promote healthy relationships.
- We give presentations in schools and the broader community.
- We provide educational resources.
- We provide a 40-Hour Advocacy Training for those wishing to increase their knowledge and skills to support survivors.
Contact us
If you or someone you know have experienced sexual or domestic violence, fill out the form below for support or call our 24/7 crisis hotline (651) 452-7288. If this is an emergency, call 911.