The Kalamazoo County Board of Commissioners has taken steps to address the growing issue of family homelessness by moving forward with a transitional family shelter. The board has approved a purchase agreement for the former Country Inn & Suites at 1912 E. Kilgore Service Rd. in Portage, Michigan. This location will become an 80-unit shelter designed to provide safety and stability for families experiencing homelessness.
The shelter’s central location near I-94 and its proximity to a Metro bus stop will make it accessible for families who need transportation to schools, community services, and other essential resources throughout Kalamazoo County.
Family homelessness in the county has increased significantly. More than 1,700 students have experienced homelessness this year, which is over 30% higher than in 2023. Data from Portage Public Schools show an 82% increase in student homelessness compared to last year, while Comstock Public Schools report a 97% rise.
“These numbers are not just statistics—they represent children and families in our community struggling to find stability,” said Kevin A. Catlin, Kalamazoo County Administrator/Controller. “Every child deserves the security of knowing where they will sleep at night, and this shelter will ensure that safety while empowering parents with resources to rebuild their lives.”
The transitional family shelter is expected to open in mid-2025 and aims to provide immediate stability through safe housing, as well as comprehensive support services like job training, childcare, mental health counseling, and life skills development. The project also intends to help families address root causes of homelessness and work toward long-term independence.
“This initiative is about much more than providing a roof over someone’s head,” said Catlin. “It’s about stepping away from approaches that only address surface-level symptoms and instead focusing on sustainable, transformative solutions. Evidence consistently shows that supportive housing changes lives and strengthens communities by addressing the root causes of homelessness, promoting safety, and enhancing stability. We are dedicated to ensuring this shelter serves as a cornerstone for hope and opportunity for generations to come.”
The county plans to share updates as the project develops so that residents remain informed.
