Degage Ministries Targets Burton Street for Housing
The nonprofit plans to transform a site into a new facility for residents experiencing chronic homelessness.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Apartments
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Degage Ministries has entered a purchase agreement to acquire a 4.3-acre site at 660 and 670 Burton St. SE in Grand Rapids from Bethany Christian Services. The proposed project aims to create a new transitional housing facility capable of accommodating 36 people experiencing chronic homelessness.
Why it matters
This development seeks to expand the reach of supportive services for individuals with complex needs by providing stable housing environments. It follows the organization's recent expansion efforts aimed at addressing the city's housing challenges.
The property spans 4.3 acres and was purchased by its current owner for $2.3 million in 2019. Proposed interior renovations include modifying the first three floors to ensure each living unit contains a private bathroom.
The players
Degage Ministries
A nonprofit organization that provides supportive services and housing solutions for individuals experiencing homelessness.
Bethany Christian Services
A global nonprofit organization based in Grand Rapids that provides social services including foster care and adoption support.
The details
Degage Ministries is currently seeking a Planned Redevelopment District amendment from the city of Grand Rapids to facilitate the project. The organization is also meeting with local neighborhood groups to incorporate community feedback into its site plans, which may include market-rate townhomes on a portion of the property.
Timeline
Bethany Christian Services purchased the property in 2019.
Heartside Landings opened in early 2024.
Renovations could begin in early 2027.
Culture Shift
This project reflects a broader shift toward permanent supportive housing models as organizations move beyond temporary emergency shelters. It aligns with the growing emphasis on providing private living spaces for vulnerable populations to foster long-term stability.
Residents may see changes in the Burton Street area as the organization gathers input and moves toward a potential redevelopment phase. The facility's completion will impact the local community by adding 36 housing units specifically designed for individuals with complex needs.
The takeaway
Supporting long-term housing solutions for chronically homeless individuals requires significant coordination between nonprofits and local neighborhood stakeholders. Residents interested in city growth can monitor upcoming municipal planning meetings for updates on zoning changes.
Further reading
Learn more about local rental and living developments in our Grand Rapids Apartments section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WOODTV.
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