For the second year in a row, COTS is partnering with eight other local nonprofits through the HandUp Detroit Collaborative to raise critical funds for individuals and families experiencing homeless. By partnering with each other instead of competing, the HandUp Detroit Collaborative is creating a better way to meet the basic needs of people in our region experiencing poverty.

Founded in 1982, Coalition On Temporary Shelter (COTS) provides emergency shelter, transitional housing, and comprehensive support services for the homeless and at-risk population in Detroit. COTS’ mission is to alleviate homelessness by providing an array of services which enable families to achieve self-sufficiency and obtain quality affordable housing. COTS provides more than 40,000 nights of emergency shelter for more than 2,000 men women and children annually.

Funds raised will be used to support critical needs for which resources do not exist, such as:

• security deposits
• rental assistance
• furniture, especially beds and mattresses
• household appliances
• utilities
• transportation

Last year, your donations supported 61 families in need. Your donations will continue to be used to help people like Rodrick, Milan, and James:

I am raising money for a bedroom set so I can be comfortable in my new home. I have always lived with someone else and now I am finally moving into my first apartment. I want to give others hope just like the hope that was given to me." - Rodrick, Mariners Inn

Thank you to everyone who donated to my cause. My utilities are now on and I feel like a huge weight has been lifted off my shoulders. My children and I can live comfortably in our new home. Thank you again for your kindness." - Milan, Community & Home Supports

It is greatly appreciated that I have people taking an interest in my life that have been there to support me through the struggle that my homelessness presented for me...your donations allow me to continue to pay my utilities on time and therefore maintain stability in my housing." - James, South Oakland Shelter

Participating Agencies whose clients will benefit from this campaign are: Central City Integrated Health (CCIH), Coalition against Temporary Shelter (COTS), Community & Home Supports, Inc. (CHS), Community Housing Network, Inc. (CHN), Neighborhood Legal Services Michigan (NLSM), Neighborhood Service Organization (NSO), Travelers Aid Society of Metro Detroit (TASMD), and South Oakland Shelter (SOS). Learn more about the HandUp Detroit collaborative here.