Homelessness has become one of the biggest problems in not just Michigan but all over the United States as many people are losing their homes for several different reasons. Some people have lost their jobs, have gotten hurt at work, come back from the military, and other unfortunate situations that have landed them in these predicaments. Either way, something has to be done to help these people who need it.

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A lot of people have heart and sympathy for those that are living on the streets and trying to make ends meet. There are tons of organizations and people that lend, donate, and gather resources so people dealing with homelessness are able to find some solace and comfort somewhere. The people of Kalamazoo have been asking the city to provide a solution for this problem for years and finally the needle was moved.

Kalamazoo Delays Homeless Shelter Opening, Discussing Winter Shelters

The City of Kalamazoo announced back in December of 2024 that they would be purchasing an old hotel to convert into a homeless shelter that will work double time as transitional housing to help families get on their feet. Originally, the city was planning to purchase the Holiday Inn on Cork Street before pivoting and buying the country inn suites on Kilgore Rd instead.

They have decided to name the shelter "The Landing Place" and were planning to open this summer. Unfortunately, that opening date has been pushed back to December 2025 as the city works through the permitting process, finalizing staffing plans and preparing the facility. They are currently looking for options to provide shelter in the meantime and have already started discussions on winter shelters.

They are also discussing a phased opening strategy so that they can open parts of the shelter and gradually bring families in while they continue to improve the shelter. They are searching for an operations provider to make sure they have the best possible care while also improving fire suppression systems, supportive service space and a commercial kitchen.

8 Must Have Items to Help the Homeless

Take a look at eight items that every homeless shelter needs. They don't cost much money and make a world of difference.

Gallery Credit: KEVIN MILLER

States With the Lowest Homeless Population in 2024

These states have the lowest amount of homeless people compared to their overall population for the entire state.

Gallery Credit: Billy Jenkins

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