The Frey Foundation is currently seeking innovative ideas to accelerate access to sustainable, quality housing opportunities in Kent County. The foundation is specifically focused on addressing housing access for people who are employed yet may be struggling to make ends meet, a circumstance defined by the United Ways as ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed).
“This concept of launching an innovation award to catalyze community creativity around this important topic aligns with the foundation’s core values.” said Ellie Frey Zagel, chair of the initiative.
According to the Heart of West Michigan United Way, at least 25 percent of Kent County’s households are considered among the ALICE population. For families in these circumstances, adults in the household are employed and earning above the Federal Poverty Level. However, they do not earn enough o cover the basic cost of living, considered to be $56,460 per year for a family of our in Kent County.
“Innovation requires us to reexamine an issue and consider different perspectives” said Frey Foundation President Holly Johnson. We hope this opportunity results in new ideas, partnerships and new ways to leverage change.”
The foundation will award a grant of up to $150,000 to an agency or partnership that submits an innovative, actionable plan, concept or collaboration that effectively reduces the number of ALICE families paying more than 30 percent of monthly income for housing. Submissions will be evaluated, and an idea selected, by an external, multi-sector advisory committee coordinated by the Grand Valley Metro Council.
For families whose circumstances fall within the ALICE parameters, many factors contribute to housing insecurity. “Low supply and high housing costs are just the start,” said Lynne Ferrell, Frey Foundation Program Director. “Beyond basic supply and demand, stagnant wages, illness or unanticipated household expenses can hinder a family’s ability to afford rent or a mortgage payment. This can snowball into an eviction or damaged credit and present an entirely new set of challenges.”
To be considered, ideas should address at least one of the following:
• Finance
• Creative Development• Policy
This call for housing innovation is an addition to the foundation’s regular grantmaking. While the foundation serves West and Northern Michigan, this particular opportunity is focused on Kent County.
Ideas are currently being accepted online. The deadline for submission is Oct. 29. More information is available at freyfdn.org/housinginnovation.
