Hope Network, Ladder Homes and Lakeshore Habitat for Humanity break ground on housing project
The first-of-its-kind partnership will create safe, stable housing for individuals experiencing homelessness
HOLLAND — A pioneering local coalition has broken ground on a new residential project aimed at providing long-term stability for individuals transitioning out of homelessness.
The initiative marks the first formal housing collaboration between Hope Network, Ladder Homes, and Lakeshore Habitat for Humanity. Located at 350 S. River Ave., the new home will offer safe, affordable housing for at least four residents referred through community organizations Gateway Mission and Good Samaritan Ministries.
The project signals a milestone for Ladder Homes following its operational integration with Hope Network on Jan. 1. While Ladder Homes continues to operate under its original name and mission, the merger was designed to expand the nonprofit’s reach after more than 30 years of serving the Holland area.
Located at 350 S. River Ave., the new home will offer safe, affordable housing for at least four residents referred through community organizations Gateway Mission and Good Samaritan Ministries. [Courtesy]
"Safe and stable housing can be the foundation that allows someone to begin building a better future," said Bob Von Kaenel, President and CEO of Hope Network. "This project is a great example of what can happen when organizations come together around a shared commitment to their community."
Rick VanTil Sr., Executive Director of Ladder Homes, echoed the sentiment, calling the River Avenue groundbreaking a direct result of the new alliance. "For more than three decades, Ladder Homes has been about giving people a stable place to live and an opportunity to move forward," VanTil said. "With Hope Network and partners like Lakeshore Habitat for Humanity, we have an opportunity to build on that legacy."
By combining Lakeshore Habitat’s construction expertise with Hope Network’s social and supportive service framework, organizers aim to create a repeatable model for addressing housing insecurity in Ottawa County.
The development comes amid a broader expansion of Hope Network’s footprint in West Michigan. In addition to housing initiatives, the Grand Rapids-based organization has recently partnered with Ottawa County Community Mental Health on local residential care and expanded its regional behavioral health and autism services.
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