KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – A partnership of local governments and other nonprofit organizations is inviting proposals from qualified, experienced service providers willing to operate daytime and nighttime shelters for people experiencing homelessness during the coming cold months in Kalamazoo County.
The Kalamazoo County Continuum of Care, United Way of South Central Michigan, Kalamazoo County Government and the City of Kalamazoo this week together issued the Request For Proposal (RFP) with the goal of making sure unhoused individuals and families have access to safe, warm and supportive shelter.
Changes at local shelters will reduce emergency overnight beds in Kalamazoo County by as many as 160 beds beginning in October. They says the RFP seeks providers who can expand or establish winter shelter operations, with particular emphasis on adult men and individuals not engaged in long-term programming.
“Every day our network of providers sees what it means to not have a safe place to sleep,” said Patrese Griffin, who leads the Continuum of Care through United Way. “Winter shelter is about more than staying warm. It’s about dignity, safety and stability. Through this partnership, we can build on the expertise of local providers and make sure no one in Kalamazoo County is left out in the cold.”
Kalamazoo County Government plans to dedicate $396,750 towards this effort. Jen Strebs, Chair of the Kalamazoo County Board of Commissioners, said the basic human need for shelter drives this effort.
“We have a responsibility to make sure no one is left without shelter when winter hits, and we can’t wait until the first snow to act,” said Strebs. “This is about protecting lives and making sure every person in our community has a safe place when the weather is most dangerous.”
“Kalamazoo County is committed to finding real solutions that support those most at risk,” added Kalamazoo County Administrator/Controller Dr. Kevin A. Catlin. “We’re working alongside United Way, the Continuum of Care, the City of Kalamazoo, and others to make it happen. Together, we can build partnerships that keep people safe this winter and connect them to long-term stability.”
City of Kalamazoo Mayor David Anderson applauded the collective approach to a need that touches hundreds of lives across every community.
“Homelessness doesn’t stop at city or county borders,” said Anderson “That’s why the City of Kalamazoo has committed $300,000 to this effort. We stand alongside the County, United Way and the Continuum of Care to expand shelter capacity when it’s needed the most this winter.”
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