State Grant Could Fund New Andy’s Place Locations in Kalamazoo, Southfield

State Representative Kathy Schmaltz is seeking a $5 million state grant to expand the work of Andy’s Angels, a Michigan-based organization dedicated to helping individuals overcome substance use disorders. Schmaltz testified this week alongside Andy’s Angels founder Mike Hirst in support of the funding request, which was submitted through the state budget process.

The proposed funding would support operational costs at Andy’s Place in Jackson and allow for the development of additional recovery housing in other areas of Michigan, including Kalamazoo and Southfield.

“Andy’s Place has changed lives and brought families back together,” Schmaltz said. “It gives people a second chance. The demand for this kind of program is overwhelming, and the success speaks for itself. It’s a model we need to expand across Michigan.”

Andy’s Place opened in Jackson in 2020 and currently provides 50 fully furnished, rent-subsidized apartments for individuals and families referred through Michigan’s recovery courts. Residents sign annual leases requiring sobriety and receive support through on-site staff, peer-support programs, and wraparound recovery services. The program has reported a relapse rate of less than 2%.

Thanks to prior legislative investment in the 2024-25 state budget, Andy’s Place II recently opened, offering 26 additional units in Jackson. The newly proposed $5 million grant for the 2025-26 state budget would allow Andy’s Angels to maintain operations in Jackson while expanding to new locations.

Andy’s Angels was founded by Mike Hirst after the death of his son Andy from a heroin overdose in 2010. Since then, the organization has gained national attention for its approach to recovery housing.

“We’ve put together something that nobody else in the entire country has,” Hirst said. “Michigan has led the way, and now other states are reaching out to learn how to replicate our success.”

Hirst emphasized the impact of stable, supportive environments on recovery outcomes, particularly for families with children. “Some of these kids have never been exposed to a really nice apartment with a really nice playground, with no drug activity and no alcohol activity going on around them. That changes everything,” he said.

Rep. Schmaltz said she will continue to advocate for the grant as lawmakers work to finalize the 2025-26 state budget.