NEF was thrilled to attend the grand opening of the Ruth Ellis Clairmount Center in Detroit! The opening of this wonderful permanent supportive housing development brought together residents, civic leaders, investors, developers and neighborhood supporters to participate in a ribbon-cutting, tour of the building and a block party to celebrate a new community cornerstone.
According to research, 40 percent of all young people experiencing homelessness are members of the LGBTQ+ community. To combat this crisis, developers Full Circle Communities, Inc collaborated with the Ruth Ellis Center and worked with Detroit Housing and Revitalization Department to secure necessary financing. The team also worked with Henry Ford Health to integrate counseling and a provision of health services for residents such as primary care, comprehensive sexual health services, PrEP and HIV treatment and more.
With the creation of the Ruth Ellis Clairmount Center, LGBTQ+ youth have access to 43 units of permanent supportive housing, a community health & wellness center, career training and more necessities that help address barriers that LGBTQ+ youth face in accessing housing and vital services. Despite the center's focus and the tailored services for LGBTQ+ youth, no one will be turned away and individuals who do not identify as members of the community are welcome to stay and thrive.
Ruth Ellis was a pioneering LGBTQ+ Detroit citizen who, beginning in the 1930s, offered shelter and support to the city's LGBTQ+ population. A four-story mural by local artist Ijania Cortez celebrating Ellis is painted on the exterior of the building.
NEF is honored to partner with such dedicated partners like FCC and the REC. Your passion for providing safe, stable affordable housing and supportive housing continues to inspire us!
Read what the Mayor Duggan's office had to say about this new development.
Learn more about the REC Clairmount.
