GRAND RAPIDS, Michigan — Work has started on a project to create temporary housing for those experiencing homelessness in Grand Rapids.
Investment firm Eenhoorn LLC partnered with nonprofit Community Rebuilders to redevelop the former retirement home on Fulton Street East.
"We feel that, you know, we have a duty to try to help also those that maybe cannot afford to pay rent," said Paul Heule, CEO of Eenhoorn. "We felt well let's just go do it and see if this is effective and works well."
Each apartment will include a kitchenette and bathroom, as well as space to live and sleep. It's also a way for the residents to get connected with resources in the community.
"We are bringing together partners across the community to make sure that we are addressing affordable housing and the needs of some of the most vulnerable populations within our community," said Vera Beech, Executive Director of Community Rebuilders. "Being able to transform this once vacant space to actual living environment where people can thrive and rebuild their lives is really significant."
The housing will be temporary, at little to no cost, to help people get back on their feet and address the growing housing crisis in Kent County.
The latest official data is from a point-in-time count in 2023, which counted 1,239 people experiencing homelessness in Kent County. That's up from 723 in 2018.
"There's a shortage of housing at all price price points in our community," Beech said. "It makes it very difficult for those who are low, or very low income, or extremely low income to be able to access the rental market."
The housing will be at 1450 E Fulton Street in Grand Rapids. The organizations hope to have it up and running this Fall.
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