Ensuring your neighbors have a place to go while they search for more permanent housing is the goal of a new project that officially began on Tuesday. Door County Medical Center is collaborating with the Interfaith Coalition for Housing and Door County Habitat for Humanity to create a transitional home complex for a family experiencing housing instability.

The groups will work together to transform an old medical clinic into transitional housing that will also host services designed to help families get back on their feet. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there is a correlation between housing instability and several health-related issues, including increased chronic illness, higher stress and anxiety, and reduced access to care.

Financial support for the initiative is provided by DCMC, grant funding, and member churches of ICH-SB, including HOPE Church, Sturgeon Bay Moravian Church, Bay View Lutheran Church, Christ the King Holy Nativity, and Hainesville Lutheran Church.  Interfaith Coalition for Housing Vice President Greta Meleen says the new facility will address a need that is often found in rural areas like Door County.

Door County Habitat for Humanity Executive Director Lori Allen believes the project will keep volunteers engaged and showcase the organization’s abilities beyond its homebuilding projects.

“This project reflects DCMC’s deep commitment to improving the overall health and well-being of our community,” said Brian Stephens, CEO of Door County Medical Center. “By partnering with ICH-SB and Habitat for Humanity to provide safe, supportive housing for families in transition, we are helping build a stronger foundation for long-term stability, health, and hope.” The first family could move in as soon as this spring.