In a move to consolidate services and streamline support, Detroit's one-stop shop for housing needs has now broadened its offerings to include a range of additional assistance options for residents. The Detroit Housing Services Office (DHS), established just eight months ago, will now field cases previously handled by the Community Health Corps, according to the City of Detroit. Starting March 1, Detroiters grappling with problems from utility bills to emergency housing can dial a single number for help.
The DHS extension is a part of Mayor Duggan's ambitious $203M Affordable Housing Plan launched in June 2023 designed to provide a singular access point for residents in need. Now, a resident in financial distress or struggling to pay for water or property taxes can simply call 866-313-2520 and tap into a wide network of supportive services, including job training and other social needs. "When someone needs immediate support, they shouldn’t have to spend valuable time trying to figure out which City program can help," David Bowser, Chief of Housing Solutions and Supportive Services, per the City of Detroit.
The DHS isn't new to fielding calls for help. Since activating its Housing Resource HelpLine in May, it has responded to more than 100,000 calls for assistance, demonstrating the city's commitment to connecting citizens with a plethora of partner programs and organizations. The transition of services from the Community Health Corps to the DHS aims to be an invisible change for residents, with no interruption to those seeking aid.
The inclusion of case management teams, part of a workforce engaged over 100 strong, ensures a full review of each resident’s needs is conducted. The centralization of this expansive web of support is poised to be a boon for Detroiters, simplifying access to vital resources through a single helpline. Whether it’s a water bill that's overwhelming or a landlord dispute, the DHS' expansion signals a robust effort to support residents across a spectrum of challenges.
