Trinity Health Ann Arbor, with the support of Washtenaw County, announced it will open a temporary housing solution in November 2025 in a building on the hospital’s main campus, significantly expanding the county’s capacity to support unhoused families. The project is being launched with a $1 million Legislative Enhancement Grant from the State of Michigan’s FY25 budget secured by Senator Jeff Irwin. The facility will be operated by Interfaith Hospitality Network at Alpha House.
The grant is specifically designated for temporary emergency housing operations, expansion of physical space, and direct services that benefit the health, safety, and welfare of Michigan residents. The award and pending project represent a significant step forward in addressing housing insecurity in Washtenaw County.
“Our health system is built on a foundation of core values, which includes our strong support and service to those experiencing poverty, especially the most vulnerable,” said Alonzo Lewis, president of Trinity Health Ann Arbor, Livingston, Oakland, and Livonia. “By converting available space on our campus, we aim to help break the cycle of poverty and make a significant impact on the broader Washtenaw County community.”
Across the United States, communities are experiencing a housing crisis, which is acutely felt in Michigan and particularly in Washtenaw County, where a significant shortage of affordable housing and rising costs have contributed to a rise in homelessness. This crisis is especially devastating for families, with more than 100 parents and children on Washtenaw County’s family shelter waiting list and 8 to 10 families losing housing each week.
The location of the new temporary housing facility on the campus of Trinity Health Ann Arbor offers high access to opportunity, being well-served by bus lines and close to major employers and educational institutions. This strategic location aims to remove transportation barriers and provide easy access to essential services and opportunities for families throughout the county.
The partially vacant building, which previously operated as a nursing home, is well-suited for family temporary housing. It offers 30 individual living units, each equipped with a private bathroom, which can accommodate up to four beds per unit. Trinity Health Ann Arbor identified housing as a top community need through its 2024 Community Health Needs Assessment.
Demonstrating its commitment to serve the community, the hospital will retain ownership of the building and land, while leasing the space for just $1 annually to Alpha House, a non-profit organization that has provided shelter and support to children and families experiencing homelessness in Washtenaw County for more than 30 years.
Improvements to the building are estimated to be $2 million for upgrades to the plumbing and electrical systems, in addition to required roof, HVAC, and elevator work. Trinity Health Ann Arbor and Washtenaw County are currently working with community partners to secure the additional funds needed to support the facility upgrades and ongoing operations. Philanthropic support from community members is also welcomed.
For more information about how you can support this project, please contact the Trinity Health Southeast Michigan Office of Philanthropy at 734-712-4040.
