Walk to End Homelessness promises good time for serious reasons

Kathy Jennings | Thursday, March 20, 2014

Each year hundreds of walkers take to the streets of Kalamazoo, united in their effort to end homelessness.

This year the walk takes place Saturday, March 22. It is the largest fundraiser for Housing Resources Inc., which works to assure housing for vulnerable residents in Kalamazoo County.

What makes the work of HRI necessary?

A family of four in Kalamazoo County needs an income of $14 an hour to pay fair market price for a two-bedroom apartment, yet an estimated 47 percent of community renters cannot meet this threshold, Davis says.

"These families are just one crisis away from being homeless," Davis says. "Last year alone, HRI received more than 8,000 requests for help. They are the reason we’re walking."

HRI provides assistance through affordable housing at Pinehurst Townhomes, The Rickman House, Rosewood, and Summit Park, emergency rapid rehousing at Eleanor House, and through a number of other programs.

The 2014 goal is to raise $100,000, which would go to prevent homelessness and offer safe, affordable and permanent housing.

Donations can be made individually or by soliciting pledges, and teams are encouraged to participate. Gifts also can be made onsite on the day of the walk. Donations also are accepted through FirstGiving here.

The event, Walking Home, typically has followed a three-mile route along the Kalamazoo Valley River Trail. But heavy snow accumulation is prompting a change this year. The course will largely follow city streets from Eleanor House to Star World Amusement, 412 Harrison St., and back to Eleanor House.

Walking Home onsite registration begins at 8 a.m. on March 22. Warm-up begins at 8:45 a.m., and the walk begins at 9 a.m.

"We promote a festive atmosphere with a serious goal," Davis explained. "We want people to have a good time while they make a positive impact on housing needs."

Source: Michelle Davis, Housing Resources Inc. and Rick Chambers, Rick Chambers & Associates