The city of Birmingham has begun implementing phase one of its Home For All initiative, a $2.4 million project to provide “safe, dignified shelter and supportive services” for unhoused residents.
The program–a partnership between the city and Faith Chapel Care Center, a ministry of Faith Chapel Christian Center–will provide select residents with temporary stays in micro-shelter communities and wraparound services to assist with transitions to permanent housing. Those services include workforce development opportunities, substance abuse recovery programs, medical services, as well as case management and supportive services.
“The goal is to come alongside them while empowering them to do the work needed to gain a word we can all appreciate: independence,” Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin said of the initiative.
Intended to specifically assist men ages 18 and older who are unable to stay in traditional congregate housing, the first phase of the initiative features a 15-unit micro-shelter community in North Birmingham–complete with sidewalks, greenery, ADA-compliant showers, a pavilion, bike racks, a community center and 24/7 security.
Each unit includes heating and cooling, a bed, desk, chair, microwave and mini-refrigerator, as well as original artwork, personal hygiene items, an alarm clock and other amenities.
“Housing is not just about walls and a roof,” said Dr. Meghan Venable-Thomas, director of Community Development. “It is about stability. It is about dignity and the opportunity to heal.”
According to the city, the Home For All will operate as a pilot program for one year, with Faith Chapel selected to operate phase one through a competitive bid process. Urban Alchemy–a national organization focused on addressing homelessness and poverty in cities across the country–will lead phase two, set to offer an additional 40 micro-shelters with a construction agreement expected in the coming months. The city previously partnered with Urban Alchemy to launch HEART Birmingham, a program which provides response to non-emergency 911 and 311 calls related to homelessness.
“Our commitment to supporting our unhoused neighbors is strong,” said Woodfin. “This program will be life-changing for those who not only need shelter, but a partner who will walk alongside them with a compassionate, thoughtful plan toward permanent housing and resources.”
