Michigan Shelter Marks 50 Years with Plan for Family-Only Expansion

The Jackson Interfaith Shelter in Jackson, Michigan, is preparing to deepen its community impact with a dedicated facility for families. Backed by a $1 million request in the state budget, the proposed expansion aims to create a safer, more tailored environment for parents and children, while repurposing the current shelter to better serve single adults.

State Representative Kathy Schmaltz and Shelter CEO Steve Castle recently testified in Lansing in support of the grant. The funding would allow the shelter to build a separate, family-only facility on property it already owns. This would enable the existing building to be devoted to single adults, increasing capacity for single women and allowing both populations to access services more tailored to their needs.

“This shelter has been a lifeline in Jackson for half a century,” Schmaltz said. She emphasized that families in crisis “need a safe place to land, where they can heal, grow, and get back on their feet.” Under the proposed plan, families would have access to designated classes and shared kitchen space, creating a supportive environment that is both safe and empowering.

Castle, highlighting the shelter’s long history, noted the timely importance of the project as the organization marks its 50th anniversary. “There are a host of things that are going to be a lot better, safer, and more targeted for families in this space,” he said.

Founded in 1974 following a tragic loss of life on the streets of Jackson, the shelter now offers emergency housing, three daily meals, case management, and transitional housing to anyone in need. The expansion also includes an overflow outbuilding to help accommodate residents during extreme weather. Partnerships with local organizations will continue to offer wraparound services—including child care, job support, and housing assistance—around the clock.

This initiative aligns with broader bipartisan values. Democratic officials in Michigan and beyond have long advocated for housing stability, child welfare, and cost-effective support systems. Many believe that providing families with safe shelter and comprehensive care strengthens communities while laying a foundation for long-term independence.

State data shows that homelessness in Michigan continues to rise. In 2023, approximately 33,226 Michiganders experienced homelessness—an increase of about 2 percent over the previous year. Children are particularly affected: nearly 33,000 school-aged students and an additional 10,000 children aged three and younger experienced housing instability in 2022–2023. Nationally, homelessness among families with children surged 39 percent between 2023 and 2024, and children accounted for nearly 150,000 of those affected—marking a 33 percent increase over the prior year.

“This project is the next logical step for a shelter that has always risen to meet the needs of our community,” Schmaltz said. She reiterated that the expansion is critical to “making sure families … have a place to call home while they rebuild their lives.”

Michigan lawmakers in Lansing are expected to finalize the state budget in the weeks ahead, with Rep. Schmaltz committed to continuing her advocacy for the grant to bring the shelter’s vision to life.