Jessie Van Berkel
Reporter
Social ServicesShe has worked for the paper since 2014, primarily covering state government and politics. She has also reported on the city of St. Paul and the Twin Cities’ southern suburbs.
Jessie previously wrote for the Sarasota Herald-Tribune, The Post-Crescent, The Seattle Times, The Oregonian and MinnPost. She graduated from the University of Minnesota. Outside of work, she can usually be found planning her next trip, outdoor adventure or cooking project.
Latest from Jessie Van Berkel
‘Safe recovery sites’ would offer syringes, naloxone and more to people using drugs. The plan could be in peril.
The state is seeking providers to run a handful of places where people could get services and safer supplies, but a Senate plan would cut the dollars.
April 21, 2025
Volunteers help advocate for abused or neglected children in Minnesota. There aren’t enough to meet the need.
The number of volunteer guardians ad litem, who help provide a voice for kids, has plummeted. For the first time in years, new volunteers are being trained.
April 19, 2025
Minnesota addiction and mental health providers fear federal cuts will hurt ‘life-saving’ services
School-based substance abuse services and other programs are being cut after $27.5 million was rescinded. Providers hope a court battle will restore the grants.
April 13, 2025
Social Security changes have Minnesotans worrying and waiting
Minnesota seniors who can’t get help online may encounter longer drives or wait times after policy changes April 14.
April 5, 2025
Need help finding housing or financial aid? Minnesota’s growing number of hubs support families.
The number of resource centers has grown across Minnesota in recent years, but state funding to support the work is temporary.
March 30, 2025
Parents say Minnesota’s involuntary commitment system failed their sons. What should change?
Families say loved ones with serious mental illnesses like schizophrenia fall through gaps in Minnesota’s civil commitment system. Lawmakers and advocates disagree on what’s needed.
March 25, 2025
Minnesota cuts employment services for people with disabilities
Some in the field fear state’s abrupt steps to rein in costs are hurting those with disabilities and will lead to waitlists.
March 17, 2025
Minnesota extends deadline for cannabis business applications after system outage
The portal for those seeking licenses to operate cannabis businesses shut down Friday.
March 16, 2025
Minnesota student’s passport held amid investigation of missing woman in Dominican Republic
St. Cloud State senior Joshua Riibe has remained in his hotel room under police surveillance when not questioned at the police station, his parents said.
March 16, 2025
Minnesota improperly spent $113 million in federal funds on treatment facilities
The state is repaying the government for the decadelong error, cutting into the current budget.
March 7, 2025
Minnesotans fear food stamp cuts as food shelf visits reach all-time high
More Minnesotans than ever before visited food shelves in 2024 as residents struggle with high food prices and the end of pandemic benefits.
March 4, 2025
State staff at St. Peter facilities protest working conditions, including port-a-potty
DHS employees at the sex offender and mental health programs in St. Peter say staff safety concerns and “disrespect” from management have grown worse.
March 2, 2025
