How to Build a Housing Program
STEP 1:
Build a House or remodel a house purchased from the Kent County Land Bank.
STEP 2:
Support youth to move in and find stability.
STEP 3:
Work with them to make it their home.
WE NEED YOUR HELP WITH STEP 3 – LEARN MORE BELOW!
Ok, Maybe it’s not that simple.
Of course, this an over-simplification that doesn’t show the years of planning, research, and hard work to build a new model of supportive housing in Grand Rapids. Additionally, each step is often complicated process. And now, we need your help with Step 3!
In March, we filmed an MTV Cribs-style tour of one AYA home (video below). While the youth loved seeing their space on screen, their mentor, Regina, shared an observation made by the youth living in the house:
“The first thing [the youth] pointed out was how much the house didn’t look like a home…They have done small things to liven up the space but wondered if AYA could help. They want to decorate the space together!”
We’d love to say yes—but we need your help!
What Can You Do?
Understand the Issue
Schedule a tour of AYA’s drop-in center and learn more about the root causes of youth homelessness.
Respond with Generosity
Donate today – contribute financial gifts or become a recurring donor to fund valuable resources, or donate housewares.
Give your Time
Volunteer to help around our drop in center or prepare a hot meal.
Schedule A Tour
Tour our drop-in center and learn more about how we are serving youth.
About AYA Youth Collective
Our Two Approaches to Fight Homelessness
Drop-In Center
We are on track to see over 1000 youth this year and offer resources such as basic needs, laundry, vital document recovery (driver’s license, birth certificate), medical care, therapy/counseling services, employment and education resources, and so much more.
Long-term Housing
AYA’s Supportive Housing Program operates 12 homes and can house up to 35 youth. In each home, mentors live alongside youth and act as their first point of contact. Community is built through weekly house dinners, shared experiences, and daily interactions.
About AYA Youth Collective
Our Two Approaches to Fight Homelessness
Drop-In Center
We see 450 youth a year and offer resources such as basic needs, laundry, vital document recovery (driver’s license, birth certificate), medical care, therapy/counseling services, employment and education resources, and so much more.
Long-term Housing
Our supportive housing resource is a place where youth can rest, recharge, and heal. In each home, mentors live alongside youth and act as their first point of contact. Community is built through weekly house dinners, shared experiences, and daily interactions.