Rochester has long been known for the Mayo Clinic and the world renowned medical care provided there. Visitors from all over the world come to Rochester seeking medical treatment at Mayo, including law enforcement officers and their family members. From time to time, Rochester Police Officers have been approached by fellow officers who were in Rochester for Mayo related reasons. Much of the conversation would center on “talking shop” or learning where the best places to eat were. Other times, calls would be received at the police department from other agencies letting us know one of their co-workers would be at Mayo and asking if we could help out in any way or make sure they’re okay during their stay in Rochester. Officer Don Bray had always done what he could to help officers and their families when they were in Rochester but he always had a desire to do more for these fellow officers.

Don always had a vision of being able to provide some sort of lodging for law enforcement families visiting the Mayo Clinic. Through Don’s tireless efforts, that vision became a reality in 2008 when the original “House of Shields” opened its doors. Don was able to find and secure lodging that law enforcement officers visiting the Mayo Clinic could use at no cost. We all know how expensive medical care is today and that is compounded when one has to travel long distances to receive needed care. Don made arrangements with a local property manager, Allman & Associates, for access to three apartments, close to Mayo, which are only available to law enforcement officers and their family members. These apartments make the costs of out of town medical care less of a concern for a fellow officer in a time of crisis.

The apartments are fully furnished and provided at absolutely no cost to officers and their family members for long or short term stays. Furthermore, this lodging is not limited to Minnesota law enforcement officers, it is available to officers from anywhere. Many officers from other countries have utilized the apartments which are paid for via private donations and through the Rochester Police Benevolent Association and the Olmsted County Deputy Sheriff s Association. Major donors include the Minnesota State Patrol Troopers Association, The St. Paul Police Federation and Kwik Trip, Inc. Since its inception, the “House of Shields” has served nearly 400 families and are fully occupied on most days. Additionally, Officer Bray and the “House of Shields” are looking to the future and hoping to expand the amount of lodging offered to those visiting Mayo by increasing the number of rooms available to officers in need.