Grand Rapids Chamber Foundation Addresses Homelessness through Flexible Funding and Public-Private Partnerships

Last month, we announced the Grand Rapid Chamber Foundation as the recipient of Foundations for Families’ 2026 Community Impact Award. The Grand Rapids Chamber Foundation was selected for its work as part of the 100 in 100 initiative, which provided permanent housing to more than 100 individuals experiencing chronic homelessness in Kent County, Michigan. The Foundation was awarded $2,500 to further its work.

Grand Rapids Chamber Foundation is part of a public-private collaborative of organizations committed to addressing homelessness. What started as hyper-focused and time-limited effort has now grown into a sustainable model that supports the vibrancy and economic success of greater Grand Rapids.

Grand Rapids Chamber Foundation stood out for its unique approach in removing barriers to access that result in immediate positive impact, as well as its collaborative efforts to foster long-term, sustainable solutions. As our nation’s housing affordability crisis has led to unprecedented homelessness, demand is rising for homelessness services. We applaud the efforts of Grand Rapids Chamber Foundation and its partners in identifying critical needs, addressing immediate challenges, and planning strategically for long-term sustainability - Augenblick, Executive Director of Foundations for Families.

100 in 100 Opens the Door to Improve Homelessness Outcomes

In 2024, 100 in 100 was launched to house 100 individuals experiencing homelessness within 100 days. Grand Rapids Area Coalition to End Homelessness spearheaded the initiative, with the support of many direct service providers and public and private partners. The initiative was aligned to the principles of Built for Zero and uses a coordinated entry system to refer participants to tailored permanent housing solutions, with wraparound services to ensure long-term stability.

Partnership and Support from the Grand Rapids Chamber Foundation

Recognizing there isn’t a single responsible entity for ending homelessness, and that a shared vision is essential to promote positive outcomes, Grand Rapids Chamber Foundation is committed to removing barriers and supporting success. 100 in 100 utilizes the expertise of case managers and a referral system to connect individuals with resources. This is the work of service providers and partners throughout the county. As a convener and financial supporter, the Grand Rapids Chamber Foundation is implementing a distinctive approach to support the work.

Removing Financial Barriers to Support Positive Outcomes

What is unique about the Grand Rapids Chamber Foundation’s role in 100 in 100 is its flexible funding strategy. In collaboration with the many partners involved in the initiative, the Chamber Foundation identified a need to remove financial barriers to rapidly support success.

The Chamber Foundation has used its flexible funding strategy to cover costs that present obstacles to accessing or maintaining stable housing. This may include lease guarantees, security deposits, first month’s rent, and application fees to name a few. Removing these barriers allows individuals an opportunity to secure housing. Funding has also supported furnishing apartments and purchasing necessities to help individuals establish their new home. This nimble funding helps to accelerate and ensure resources are readily available.

The Chamber Foundation reports that investments have averaged less than $500 per person served to help remove obstacles to permanent housing. The success of 100 in 100 has led to improvements in physical and mental health; reduced needs for public resources, emergent medical care, and public safety interactions; and has enhanced the vibrancy of public spaces in the community, among many other individual and communitywide benefits.

Sustainability through the Downtown Pathways Project

To support a sustainable approach to ending homelessness, and one that is transparent and aligned with creating a vibrant and flourishing Grand Rapids, the efforts of 100 in 100 will be part of the Downtown Pathways Project moving forward. Building on the success of 100 in 100, public, private, and philanthropic support will continue drive the initiative. You can learn more about the purpose and vision of the Downtown Pathways Project and sign up for their newsletter on the initiative website.

Congratulations, again, to the Grand Rapids Chamber Foundation, and thank you for sharing your innovations with us!

Thank you.

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