Grand Rapids tiny homes project addresses homelessness issues

Mel Trotter Ministries and Next Step of West Michigan are starting a project to build 16 tiny homes in southeast Grand Rapids. The initiative aims to help combat homelessness in the area. Construction of the Hope Village community began on March 20, with a budget of $3.5 million. The tiny homes will be built on 1.65 acres close to Next Step’s facility at 100 Garden St. SE. Up to 10 homes are expected to be finished by the end of this year. These homes will provide housing for people moving out of homelessness and will feature a mix of one- and two-bedroom units, each ranging from 400 to 530 square feet. Tenants will have access to mental health and medical services at the Next Step facility nearby. The rent for these units will be set at 30% of the tenant's income. A portion of the rent will also go into a personal bank account. This money can help tenants transition to larger apartments or save for a home deposit. Chris Palusky, the President and CEO of Mel Trotter, emphasized the goal of supporting individuals to lead better lives. The project is designed to give people an investment in their housing situation. Next Step is prefabricating the homes at its carpentry training center. This faith-based nonprofit also provides job training in various fields for marginalized individuals. Darion Boyd, one of the builders, shared that gaining these skills can lead to significant opportunities, especially in addressing the housing shortage. The project was supported by a $300,000 donation from the Lowe's Foundation, along with funding from the Michigan State Housing Development Authority and several other local donors.