Two local nonprofits combining their unique strengths means a safe and warm place to sleep for many unhoused people this winter.
Starting Dec. 1, Ministry with Community (MwC) and Housing Resources Inc. (HRI) are coordinating emergency overnight winter shelter services through March 31, 2026. Kalamazoo County, the City of Kalamazoo, and the Kalamazoo County Continuum of Care, part of United Way of South Central Michigan, together provided $700,000 to fund the effort. That includes funds to Dignity In Motion, another local nonprofit that will arrange hotel space for those needing medical respite.
“This shelter program is another example of our community coming together to address an urgent need while also striving for long-term solutions to homelessness,” said Patrese Griffin, Director of the Kalamazoo County Continuum of Care (CoC).
MwC will operate the overnight shelter at its existing facility, 500 N. Edwards Street. It currently serves as Kalamazoo’s only daytime shelter open 365 days a year. HRI brings considerable skills in access coordination, meaning HRI will match individuals with appropriate shelter options and manage the intake process.
“This partnership allows us to build on our combined decades of service to the community,” said Sid Ellis, Executive Director of Ministry with Community. “By linking MwC’s day shelter services with overnight accommodation and HRI’s shelter coordination expertise, we can offer a seamless service of dignified care during the coldest months of the year.”
The overnight shelter can serve up to 80 people, Ellis said. In below-freezing conditions, MwC has room to accept up to 91 people in total. Shelter space will be open to individual adults age 18 and above. The program also features trauma-informed care protocols, professional staffing and low-barrier access.
Michelle Davis, Executive Director of HRI, said those in need of emergency overnight shelter can call HRI at (269) 382-0287 and press “1” for winter shelter. HRI will assign people to shelter based on availability. “Our approach to housing has always been rooted in partnership. Working alongside Ministry with Community means each of us can leverage our strengths to meet this need together,” said Davis, Executive Director of HRI. “We’re grateful to be part of a generous, compassionate community willing to serve those who are unhoused.”
