Nonprofit to kick-off development of tiny home project

Mar 14

Photo courtesy of Mel Trotter Ministries

Mel Trotter Ministries, the largest provider of services to people experiencing homelessness in West Michigan, will celebrate a landmark achievement in the construction of its first tiny home on March 20. The organization will host a “ground-breaking wall-raising” event at the site of what’s known as Hope Village, in the 100 block of Garden Avenue SE.

The tiny home village is a joint project involving Mel Trotter Ministries and its subsidiary, Next Step of West Michigan. The goal of the project is to construct 16 furnished housing units on 1.65 acres of land near the Next Step facility. The homes will provide dignified living space for homeless individuals. Mel Trotter and Next Step plan to complete up to 10 of the units in 2025.

“Hope Village is a tremendous undertaking, one that will provide comfort, independence, and a path to a better life for individuals looking to breaking the cycle of homelessness,” said Chris Palusky, President and CEO, Mel Trotter Ministries. “For the past 125 years, we have provided compassion, food and shelter to our neighbors in need while also developing prevention and diversion programs that help them on their journey to a better life. We’re proud to work with Next Step to build these tiny homes which we believe will further enhance the Grand Rapids community.”

The tiny homes are designed for individuals experiencing homelessness, completed a Mel Trotter Ministries or Next Step of West Michigan work force development program, and secured sustainable employment that is at or below 65% area median income ($40,000 per year). Residents will experience affordable rent, paying no more than 30% of their monthly gross pay.

The 16 tiny homes will range in size from 400-530 square feet of living space and will include all standard housing features as required by the Grand Rapids building code. The first ceremonial wall is being assembled indoors at Next Step’s manufacturing facility and will then be transported to the construction site. The on-site wall-raising activity will involve the placement of the first pre-fabricated wall for the first tiny home.