From the Streets
to Stability
A compassionate and supportive refuge for men experiencing homelessness in Detroit
Our Commitment
To be a beacon of hope for men experiencing homelessness by ensuring access to safe and stable housing while providing the necessary support and resources needed to rebuild their lives with dignity and hope.
Our Mission
Who We Are
Safe Haven Detroit, INC is a 501(c)(3) grassroots nonprofit organization founded in 2021 with the vision to address the continuum of homelessness among men, and men with children in the city of Detroit. Our mission is to help eradicate homelessness through an ongoing transitional-to-permanent housing initiative paired with holistic, person-centered and trauma-informed support services.
We will utilize a Housing First approach, recognizing that stable housing is the foundation for recovery, growth, and long-term success. Through access to mental health services, life skills training, and employment pathways, Safe Haven Detroit will empower individuals to rebuild their lives and achieve lasting self-sufficiency. Our program is specifically designed to meet the needs of men who are often overlooked in traditional housing systems.
Future Services:
From transitional housing to holistic support and empowerment programs, we are dedicated to making a lasting impact.
Mission Statement
Safe Haven Detroit has a mission is to help eradicate homelessness, amongst men, through an ongoing transitional-to-permanent housing initiative paired with holistic, person-centered, and trauma-informed support services.
Organization Vision
Safe Haven Detroit envisions a future where every man in Detroit has access to stable housing, comprehensive support services, and the opportunity to lead a dignified and fulfilling life.
Core Values
Compassion and Empathy
Dignity and Respect
Equity and Inclusion
Collaboration and Community
Innovation and Impact
SHD: Our Growth Journey
Phase 01
Acquisition & Rehabilitation
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Purchase two Detroit properties to serve as the first Safe Haven residences.
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Lead a full rehabilitation project: structural repairs, updated plumbing/electrical, and room renovations.
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Partner with volunteers, donors, and local trades to complete the transformation.
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Prepare the home for residents — creating a safe, dignified, and healing environment.
Phase 02
Program Launch & Impact
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Official launch of the Transitional Housing Program.
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Client-centered, trauma-informed case management and holistic support plans.
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Collaborations with workforce development agencies and counseling services.
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Tracking outcomes and success stories to measure impact.
Phase 03
Expansion & Sustainability
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Seek to acquire an apartment complex to develop affordable housing units.
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Rehabilitation Project: : structural repairs, updated plumbing/electrical, and room renovations.
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Build sustainable funding models through grants, donors, community partnerships, and social entrepreneurship.
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Laying the foundation for long-term impact — continued case management with graduated participants.
Meet the Safe Haven Detroit Team
Founder & Executive Director
Allena Williams
(ex-officio)
Safe Haven Detroit
President
Elreta Dodds, LMSW, LPC
Retired Social Services Division Administrator (Executive Level)
MDHHS
Treasurer
Simone Brissett-Tate
Co-Founder & CFO
Personal Financial Coach
First Generational Properties LLC
Secretary
Spencer Richardson-Moore
Head Dance Teacher, Electives/Performing Arts Department
Clintondale Community Schools