Housing Stability in Detroit | Youth Community Agency

Donate Now!

Shirley Denise Affordable Housing Project

we believe in empowering the community and addressing the growing need for affordable housing in Metro Detroit

Shirley Denise Housing Induction 2023

The name of the Shirley Denise Project is a heartfelt tribute to the profound influence and legacy of the founder's mother in Love Mrs. Edwards and , Mrs. Ross-Banks. Mrs. Edwards unwavering love and support played a pivotal role in guiding the Youth Community Agency (YCA) towards its involvement in the housing sector. Mrs. Ross Banks dedication to community service, particularly her own efforts in founding a nonprofit to assist returning citizens and their families in the Metro Detroit area, has been a beacon of inspiration for the project. Both their relentless support and belief in the power of grassroots initiatives were instrumental in YCA's decision to launch this ambitious housing project. Reflecting on the journey, Ms. Ross shared, "It was their support, even when it was crazy to others for a grassroot nonprofit to launch a housing project, but to them, they rolled their sleeves up and asked how they can help."

This quote encapsulates the spirit of community and resilience that they both instilled in her and the YCA, driving them to create a sustainable future for teen moms and their children.

Successful Launch of Tier 3: A New Path to Homeownership

We are proud to announce a major milestone in the Shirley Denise Affordable Housing Project with the successful launch of Tier 3: Homeownership through Land Contract. Today, we celebrate the first family to achieve their dream of homeownership, overcoming traditional barriers through our innovative land contract program.

This is more than just a home – it’s a new beginning. By providing flexible terms and overcoming common obstacles to homeownership, we’re helping families in Metro Detroit secure stable, long-term housing and build equity for a brighter future.

The Shirley Denise Housing Project is committed to empowering individuals and families, creating opportunities for first-time homebuyers, and addressing the urgent need for affordable housing in our community. This success is just the beginning, and we look forward to many more families achieving their dreams of homeownership through our supportive programs.

Thank you to everyone who has supported this journey. Together, we’re making a lasting impact and transforming lives, one home at a time.

Ms. Ross Executive Director, YCA (Left), YCA First Time Homeowner, (Right)

Shirley Denise Affordable Housing Project

The Shirley Denise Housing Project is a transformative initiative by Youth Community Agency designed to provide housing stability for individuals and families in Metro Detroit. Our program focuses on meeting immediate needs and empowering participants to achieve long-term homeownership. We are committed to overcoming barriers to housing, while also creating opportunities for the community to contribute to affordable housing solutions.

Tier 1: Emergency/Temporary Placement
Tier 1 offers immediate emergency housing for individuals and families facing crisis situations. Our goal is to provide a safe, stable environment where participants can begin to rebuild their lives. During their stay, we offer access to supportive services, including case management, mental health resources, and assistance with securing permanent housing options.

Tier 2: Independent Living/Single Family Home Placement
As participants move forward, Tier 2 provides access to independent living in single-family homes. This tier is designed for individuals and families ready to transition into self-sufficiency. Participants benefit from life skills training, financial literacy programs, and other resources that assist in maintaining stable housing. The goal is to prepare them for the next step toward long-term housing stability.

Tier 3: Homeownership through Land Contract
In Tier 3, we provide a unique opportunity for participants to achieve homeownership despite the barriers that often prevent first-time buyers from qualifying for traditional mortgages. Through a land contract, Youth Community Agency serves as the bank, helping families to purchase homes with flexible terms. This program helps families build equity, credit, and financial independence while overcoming obstacles that typically hinder homeownership.

Contributing to Affordable Housing Opportunities

At Youth Community Agency, we believe in empowering the community and addressing the growing need for affordable housing in Metro Detroit. The Shirley Denise Housing Project plays a vital role in providing affordable housing opportunities to low-income families, allowing them to break the cycle of instability and poverty. Through innovative programs like our land contract homeownership model, we are committed to creating pathways for success, one family at a time.

We invite you to join us in making a lasting impact on affordable housing. By supporting the Shirley Denise Housing Project, you can contribute to creating sustainable communities in Metro Detroit. Together, we can overcome the barriers to homeownership, providing a brighter future for families in need.

Shirley Denise Affordable Housing Project

Welcome to Youth Community Agency (YCA), where we're committed to addressing housing instability and closing the racial wealth gap in Metro Detroit. Since the launch of our housing program in 2020, we've made significant strides in providing affordable housing solutions. Originally starting with one home, our program has expanded, and we're proud to introduce the Shirley Denise Housing Project, named in honor of our dedicated supporters. Now with three homes and plans for further expansion, we're creating independent living opportunities for teen moms and offering affordable housing options for low-income families.

At YCA, we understand the importance of stable housing in fostering economic empowerment and well-being. Our initiatives not only aim to provide housing but also to address the root causes of instability. By offering comprehensive support services, financial education, and employment opportunities, we're empowering families to build a foundation for long-term success. Together, we're making strides towards a more equitable future, one where every family has access to safe and affordable housing. Join us in creating lasting change in our community.

Future 2026

Shirley Denise Housing Project by Youth Community Agency

Empowering Teen Moms Towards Sustainable Living

The Shirley Denise Housing Project, spearheaded by the Youth Community Agency, is gearing up for a significant expansion in 2026, with the goal of extending its support to more African American teen moms and their children. This ambitious expansion will see the addition of new, eco-friendly one-story tiny homes, each equipped with solar panels to promote sustainable living and reduce living costs for the families. The focus of the expansion is not only on increasing the number of homes but also on enhancing the community environment. Plans include the development of additional green spaces, communal areas, and facilities that encourage educational and social engagement among residents. The project is committed to creating a supportive, nurturing community that empowers young mothers to achieve independence and build a stable future for themselves and their children. Through this expansion, the Shirley Denise Housing Project aims to set a new standard for community-driven, sustainable housing initiatives.