NEW CENTER
FOCUS Grand Rapids
The Need
According to the 2022 US Census, 19% of Grand Rapids residents live in poverty, above the statewide rate of 13%.
The Vision
We seek to provide permanent, supportive housing for the most vulnerable people in our community—meeting their physical, mental, spiritual, and social needs—while fostering dignity and independence in a warm, affordable, home-like environment.
Who We Serve
- Adult men and women who are unhoused or displaced.
- Many live with physical or mental challenges.
- Most have very limited income and few housing options.
- We focus on individuals who often fall through the cracks of the system.
What We Do
- Operate permanent supportive housing in Grand Rapids.
- Provide a stable, affordable, and caring environment.
- Partner with local Community and Mental Health agencies so our residents have access to:
- Case management and life skills support
- Connection to community resources
- Medical and Personal Care services
- Encouragement for spiritual growth and social engagement
- Serve up to 50 residents each year.
Our Goal
How You Can Help
After decades of faithful service, Shepherds of Independence is facing serious financial and facility challenges. The annual budget of Shepherds is roughly $670,000. Nearly $450,000 of is provided through SSI of the residents. This means there is an annual fundraising target of $250,000 to meet the annual operation budget.
- Immediate Need: A $20,000 emergency fund is needed to cover this year’s shortfall and keep the program fully operational.
- Sustaining Operations: To ensure long-term stability, we must raise $250,000 annually for ongoing program and operational support which covers housing assistance, staffing, utilities, meals, and case management.
- Capital Improvements: The building that houses our 50 residents is aging and in urgent need of repair. Over the next five years, we must raise $1 million ($200,000 per year) for essential upgrades:
- Replacement of the elevator (immediate need) – $150,000
- Installation of a new boiler for reliable heat – $200,000
- Updated bathrooms and shower rooms for accessibility and safety $200,000
- Replacement of the elevator (immediate need) – $150,000
Kitchen renovation to ensure healthy meal preparation and efficiency $250,000+
Donations by check can be mailed to:
FOCUS North America
PO Box 645039
Pittsburgh, PA 15264-5039
Please include FOCUS Grand Rapids in the memo line.
OTHER WAYS TO GIVE
Make a Pledge
We are inviting compassionate donors and community partners to join us in a 3–5 year pledge system to sustain and strengthen Shepherds of Independence. Please contact JavaScript required to view address to learn more!
Donate Stock
We’re able to accept donations in the form of stock, government (including municipal) debt and corporate debt through the Depository Trust Company (DTC).
Corporate Matching Gifts
Many companies have charitable matching programs, in which they will match their employees’ charitable contributions. Contact your Human Resources department to find out if your employer will match your gift to FOCUS.
Planned Giving
Learn more about our Legacy Society, including how we handle bequests, beneficiary designations, and donor recognition.
CFC
If you are an employee of the federal government, you can support FOCUS through the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) by indicating our code on your pledge form: 19541.
Donor Advised Funds
Donor advised funds allow you to combine favorable tax benefits with flexibility in giving. If you have a DAF established, you can recommend a gift to FOCUS using the “DAF Direct” app on our website.
Become a Supporting Parish
Your youth group, women’s or men’s group, or the entire parish can be a vial part of continuing the work of FOCUS North America
For more information in the different ways you can help make FOCUS ministries possible please e-mail our Director of Development, Sarah Werner, at JavaScript required to view address
