Permanent, shared, low-cost housing for people experiencing homelessness.
At Well House, We Believe the Solution to Homelessness is Housing
Our model is simple: we purchase vacant, boarded-up houses and bring them back to life. We move in our neighbors who need housing the most; those who are living on the streets or in emergency shelters. Whenever possible, we hire our tenants to help with the rehabilitation of the houses.
We are so grateful to all of our supporters—donors, volunteers, elected officials, service providers, tenants and other community members. With your help, we can continue to grow our organization and expand this crucial work! As of today, we own 16 houses and since 2013, over 5,000 adults and children have called Well House home.
Apply for Housing
Located on the southeast side of Grand Rapids, interested and eligible people can rent a room from Well House for an indefinite amount of time. All residents at Well House have use of a living room, kitchen, bathroom and extensive outdoor areas. If desired and when work is available, residents may apply for a part-time job working on the Urban Farm or helping rehabilitate vacant homes in the neighborhood. Well House gives priority to those who cannot access subsidized housing in the community and who have the most vulnerable health conditions.
The Well House Model
Well House provides safe, affordable housing to the homeless. We recognize that each individual has their own unique needs and challenges, and that a “one size fits all” approach is often a barrier to housing.
We include people at whatever point they are in their lives, focusing on their strengths and abilities to improve their circumstances. Residents can stay one month or many years depending on their individual situation and needs.
EMPHASIS ON CHOICE.
Client-centered strategies that cater to various subpopulations, each with its own unique needs and challenges, demonstrate higher success rates for recovery and community integration. A “one size fits all” approach has proven to be unsuccessful.
CLIENT-CENTERED.
Services to homeless residents are most effective when adapted to the needs of the client, particularly those with mental illness and addictions; rather than organizing services based on efficiencies or expertise in service delivery.
HOUSING FIRST.
Homeless are provided immediate access to a place of their own without requiring treatment or sobriety as a precondition for housing. Residents are supported with treatment options for their recovery and integration into the community.
Giving Back to the Community
Well House emphasizes living gently on the Earth and with each other. Our commitment to safe, affordable housing for those in need is accompanied by our practices that emphasize recycling, energy conservation and community engagement.
Apply for Housing
Safe, affordable living for those experiencing homelessness.
