The vibrant neighborhood of Roosevelt Park is home to hardworking neighbors who embrace the promise of a bright future. But they are also worried. Grandville Avenue—the main thoroughfare through their neighborhood—is the last corridor into downtown Grand Rapids to be redeveloped. They know change is coming and they’re afraid they won’t be able to be a part of that change.
UNDER 18
YEARS OLD
HOUSEHOLDS
BUSINESSES
MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME
(vs $54,673 in Kent County)
OF HOUSING UNITS ARE RENTALS
(vs 31% in Kent County)
As you read this, a Kent County child is packing up her belongings and preparing to leave her home. This isn’t a move her parents chose. It’s a move forced upon them, often from an unexpected expense, income change, or rising rent. When children start to accept the disruption of instability as the norm, their health and academic success often suffer.
WE KNOW THINGS CAN BE DIFFERENT
Habitat Kent has been changing lives for 35 years by building affordable homes, and more recently, revitalizing neighborhoods. Year after year, we see families flourish when frequent moves are replaced with a permanent home. Anxiety turns into hope. School grades rise. Health improves. Pride develops in a person who has a permanent stake in their neighborhood.
A stable, affordable home can change everything.
For more information about the Bright Future Campaign, contact Ann O’Keefe, Campaign Coordinator.
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