SAGINAW, MI – On August 12, state and local leaders convened in Saginaw’s Covenant neighborhood to celebrate the unveiling of newly constructed modular homes that will soon be available for sale. This initiative marks a significant step towards addressing the ongoing housing crisis, with a call for employers across the state to join the effort.
The Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) introduced its new Employer-Assisted Housing Guide at the event. This guide is designed to provide employers with crucial information and resources to help them play an active role in solving Michigan’s housing challenges.
Covenant HealthCare, through its Walk to Work program, is leading by example. The program offers down payment and renovation assistance while engaging current residents in neighborhood revitalization efforts. This collaborative effort includes partnerships with Saginaw-Shiawassee Habitat for Humanity and MSHDA.
Amy Hovey, CEO and Executive Director of MSHDA, emphasized the importance of collective action. “With partnerships like this one, we are taking steps to solve the housing crisis,” Hovey said. “We need all hands on deck, so we’re inviting employers across the state to step up like Covenant has done. Through down payment assistance, land donation, and even active real estate development, employers across the state are getting on board. Let’s get it done!”
Beth Charlton, President/CEO of Covenant HealthCare, highlighted the broader impact of such initiatives. “Covenant is proud to be working hard to make our community better,” Charlton stated. “We know that the health of a community does not rest on medical care alone; it’s about the whole person having their basic needs met, and housing is foundational to all other needs and outcomes. That’s why we’re investing $500,000 each year for the next five years into neighborhood revitalization and are working with our partners on this mission.”
Carmen Mora, Executive Director of Saginaw-Shiawassee Habitat for Humanity, expressed gratitude for the support and underscored the organization’s commitment. “Saginaw-Shiawassee Habitat for Humanity is committed to creating, preserving, and promoting affordable, accessible homes where all households, regardless of race, can benefit from the transformational power of home ownership,” Mora said. “We are grateful to our funders, this community, and volunteers who are coming forward to make this vision possible. Today is just the beginning, an inauguration that fuels our shared commitment.”
In addition to Covenant’s partnership with Saginaw-Shiawassee Habitat for Humanity, the MSHDA’s Employer-Assisted Housing Guide also highlights the contributions of the University of Michigan Health System, the Ingham County Land Bank, Short’s Brewery, Whirlpool, Cinnaire, and Mercantile Community Partners. Employers interested in getting involved can find more information at Michigan.gov/employerhousing.
