The UpSide Spring Newsletter 2025

See how you brought Alejandro home.

After losing three of her children in a tragic fire, Juanita struggled to find safe, stable housing for herself and her surviving son, Johnathan, who has a blood disorder. In 2005, MiHousing provided a life-changing haven at the Clark Apartments, where Juanita and her sister moved their families. For 18 years, Juanita has found stability, support, and care, crediting MiHousing and MiHealth with helping her rebuild her life and thrive.

Marcus, a Vietnam veteran, spent six years living on the streets in makeshift shelters, struggling with alcoholism and a lack of family support. After meeting with the VA, he found a home at Piquette Square and was asked a life-changing question: "Are you willing to quit?" With determination, Marcus embraced sobriety, attending meetings and building a supportive community. Now 14 years sober, he credits MiSide and the support of donors for helping him rebuild his life. Today, Marcus spreads hope by mentoring new tenants and keeping his door open to help others. Your support made Marcus’s transformation possible.

On June 8th, 2024, over 100 volunteers transformed Butterfly Park in Brightmoor during MiSide's annual Neighborhood Beautification Day. Once a cherished gathering spot, the park had fallen into disrepair, but volunteers restored it with new benches, fresh mulch, vibrant flowers, and more. The event brought the community together, with neighbors, MiSide staff, and local leaders celebrating the park’s revival and the power of collective action.