What is the project?
This project seeks to revitalize a long-vacant building, transforming it into safe and stable housing for Detroit residents. Supported by a $28 million investment, this initiative is funded by MSHDA LIHTC, City of Detroit HOME funds, and Historic Tax Credits, demonstrating a strong commitment to the community’s future.
Please note: Project details, including the timeline, unit distribution, and other specifics, are subject to change.
Project Goals
- Quality Housing: Provide safe and stable housing for homeless and formerly homeless individuals.
- Positive Outcomes: Improve housing stability, employment opportunities, and mental & physical health.
- Cost Savings: Reduce reliance on shelters, hospitals, and emergency services, thereby saving public funds.
- Community Impact: Enhance neighborhood safety, revitalize city blocks, and stabilize property values over time.
Historic Preservation
Preserving the historical features of the St. Mary of Redford Building is central to this project. Despite the church’s efforts, the facility has faced ongoing challenges such as trespassing, vandalism, and destruction. By safeguarding its architectural integrity, we honor the community’s cultural heritage and contribute to the surrounding area’s revitalization.
Examples of Other Volunteers of America Michigan Properties
Proposed St. Mary of Redford Design
Note: The images provided are from a similar project by the same architectural firm and closely represent how the apartments in St. Mary of Redford School may look. We’ll update these photos as the project continues to develop.
61 units for Detroit residents
Studio – 17 Units
1 Bed Room – 40 Units
2 Bedroom – 4 Units
Amenities:
Features gated parking, discrete trash receptacles, and free community space
Construction Information
As construction begins, we understand that it may bring some temporary inconveniences. We are dedicated to minimizing disruptions and ensuring the safety and well-being of all nearby residents.
Construction Updates: We will provide timely updates on the construction phases, including any potential impacts on traffic, noise levels, and access to the site.
Proposed Timeline
Current: Pre-Construction Phase
Construction: Second Half of 2025
Complete: First Quarter 2027
Note: This timeline is subject to change.
Join Us at The Next Community Meeting
We believe in the importance of community engagement. Attend our upcoming meetings to stay informed and involved. We will discuss the project’s progress, address concerns, and gather feedback.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the partners participating in this project?
This is a collaborative effort by St. Mary of Redford Parish, Volunteers of America Michigan (VOAMI), Ethos Development Partners, and civic leadership to create a new community resource that helps meet the city’s great need for affordable housing. The project architect, Fusco, Shaffer and Pappas, Inc. and the general contractor, O’Brien Construction, have partnered on a number of affordable housing developments including two conversions of former Detroit Catholic schools into affordable housing. The property manager for the project will be KMG Prestige. VOAMI is the lead sponsor for the project. VOAMI specializes in providing critical services, shelter and food for veterans, affordable housing for aging seniors, and supportive services for struggling families.
How many housing units and what other services will the project provide?
A total of 61 apartments will be available, consisting of 12 studio, 45 one-bedroom units, and 4 two-bedroom units. VOAMI will provide on-site services for residents including assistance with securing household goods, furnishings, clothing and groceries; in-home visit to assess unit condition and lease compliance; employment assistance; household budgeting; connection to mental health and health care resources including Medicaid; connection with mainstream benefits and government assistance including Section 8 programs and Social Security benefits; and transportation. The former gymnasium will be converted into a multi-purpose common space.
Who will be living at VOA St. Mary?
Housing at VOA St. Mary will be primarily targeted to chronically homeless individuals and those from the top 10% of the Continuum of Care’s priority list. The project will accept referrals from the Detroit Continuum of Care (CoC) designated agency, which operates the Detroit Homeless Delivery System, known locally as the Coordinated Assessment Model (CAM). This system identifies, assesses, prioritizes, and refers eligible households experiencing homelessness through the management of a PSH prioritization list. This new Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) community will help these individuals to gain their health, independence, and self-esteem. Homelessness in Detroit continues to be a staggering public problem. According to the 2022 Homeless Action Network of Detroit (HAND) annual report, there were a total of 6,221 individuals experiencing homelessness, of whom 3,579 were single adults over the age of 25.
How can someone apply for one of the apartment units?
When construction begins, the property management company will start taking inquiries and open the application process.
What other housing resources are available if I don’t qualify for VOA St. Mary?
Here are several housing resources that are available: www.voami.org/housing-properties or Detroit Home Connect: https://homeconnect.detroitmi.gov.
Will VOA St. Mary be a shelter for the homeless?
No. VOA St. Mary is not a homeless shelter. The project is a housing development that will provide affordable housing options for low-income families and individuals.
How can I help a person experiencing unsheltered homelessness?
You can call the Coordinated Assessment Model (CAM) hotline at 313.305.0311, visit an in-person access point, or submit a Homeless Outreach Request online. Access the form at https://camdetroit.org/outreach-request.
How much will this project cost and how is it funded?
The total investment in the local community for the transformation of the building into affordable housing is approximately $29 million. The development team is utilizing Low-Income Housing Tax Credits from the Michigan State Housing and Development Authority (MSHDA) for the project. Additional sources of funding include City of Detroit HOME funds, Federal Home Loan Bank of Indianapolis Affordable Housing Program grant, philanthropy and federal Historic Tax Credits which will help ensure the development preserves much of its historic character.
How has the community been informed and engaged about the project?
Over the past year, VOAMI has engaged with St. Mary of Redford Parish, local neighbors, and key community organizations, including the Grandmont Rosedale Development Corporation, Grandmont Community Association, Schoolcraft Improvement Association, Crary/St. Mary’s Block Club, and the City of Detroit District 1 Office. To keep the community informed, VOAMI hosted three meetings for residents within a 10-mile radius and invited community groups to learn about the project and share concerns. A distribution list was also created to provide updates and share the VOA St. Mary Permanent Supportive Housing Project website.
Will VOA St. Mary affect property values?
Residential property values depend on many factors. VOA St. Mary will help improve the neighborhood because it attractively repurposes two large buildings that have been vacant for more than two decades.
How can a vendor reach out to the general contractor to bid on upcoming work?
Contact O’Brien via email at bids@obriencc.com and request to be included on future bidding by providing the following: Company W-9, Bidding Contact Name & Email Address, List of scope/trades that you want to bid on.
Questions? Concerns?
We value your feedback. If you have any comments, concerns, or questions about the St. Mary’s project and cannot attend the meetings, please use the form below to contact us. Our team is committed to responding promptly and ensuring your voice is heard.
Application Process
More information coming soon!