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Ramsey County Launches New Juvenile Justice Treatment Homes

  //house-home.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/1 .. unches-new-juvenile-justice-treatment-homes.html
  Published in House and Home on Wednesday, February 18th 2026 at 7:42 GMT by TwinCities.com
      Locales: Minnesota, UNITED STATES

St. Paul, MN - February 18th, 2026 - Ramsey County is poised to revolutionize its approach to juvenile justice with the upcoming launch of two new treatment homes designed to provide intensive support and rehabilitation for youth involved in the legal system. Expected to be fully operational by late spring, these homes represent a significant shift away from traditional, often punitive, out-of-home placements and towards a model focused on therapeutic intervention and long-term success.

The initiative addresses a critical need within Ramsey County, where data from 2025 revealed that over 200 youth were placed in facilities outside the county, incurring a substantial cost of nearly $5 million to taxpayers. County Board Chairwoman Victoria Reinhardt emphasizes that the new treatment homes aren't simply about cost savings, though that is a welcome benefit. "This is about investing in our young people and providing them with the level of care they deserve, care that addresses the root causes of their behavior and sets them on a path toward positive futures."

These aren't simply shelters or temporary holding facilities. The homes, which will be licensed and staffed by professionals specializing in both juvenile justice and mental health, are designed to be structured, supportive environments offering a comprehensive suite of services. Intensive therapy will be a cornerstone of the program, addressing trauma, behavioral issues, and underlying mental health conditions. Alongside therapy, youth will participate in skill-building programs focused on areas like anger management, conflict resolution, and pro-social behaviors. Crucially, the program recognizes the vital role of family involvement and will offer robust family support services aimed at strengthening family dynamics and fostering a supportive home environment.

The locations have been strategically chosen. The first home will be housed in a repurposed county-owned building at 647 E. Minnehaha Ave. in St. Paul, streamlining the renovation process. The second will be located on property leased from a local nonprofit, fostering community collaboration. Paul Peterson, Director of Ramsey County Juvenile Services, explains that the location choices reflect the county's commitment to integrating these services within the existing community infrastructure. "We want these youth to remain connected to their schools, families, and communities whenever possible. Removing them entirely from their support networks can be detrimental."

The funding for this ambitious project is a combination of dedicated county resources and competitive state grants, demonstrating a collaborative effort to address a pressing social issue. This blended funding model will ensure sustainability and allow the county to expand services in the future if needed.

A Paradigm Shift in Juvenile Justice

The opening of these treatment homes is part of a larger, county-wide effort to fundamentally reform the juvenile justice system. Traditionally, the juvenile justice system has often focused on punishment and containment. However, mounting evidence suggests that this approach is ineffective in addressing the underlying issues that lead to juvenile delinquency and often exacerbates the problem. Ramsey County is moving towards a restorative justice model, prioritizing rehabilitation, accountability, and community safety.

"We're trying to create a system that is more supportive and less punitive," Peterson states. "We want to address the factors that contribute to a young person's involvement in the system, such as poverty, trauma, and lack of access to mental health services. By providing early intervention and comprehensive support, we can help these youth avoid a cycle of involvement in the juvenile justice system."

Experts in the field of juvenile justice applaud Ramsey County's innovative approach. Dr. Anya Sharma, a leading researcher in adolescent behavioral health, notes, "This model is precisely what's needed. Providing individualized therapy and skill-building in a home-like setting fosters a sense of safety and trust, which is essential for therapeutic progress. The emphasis on family support is also crucial, as strong family relationships are a protective factor against future delinquency."

The success of these treatment homes will be closely monitored, with key metrics including reductions in out-of-home placements, recidivism rates, and improvements in youth well-being. Ramsey County officials are hopeful that this initiative will serve as a model for other counties across the state and nation, demonstrating that a more compassionate and rehabilitative approach to juvenile justice is not only morally right but also fiscally responsible.