Located in Detroit, Michigan
Founded in 1982 as the Coalition on Temporary Shelter, COTS Detroit has evolved over the decades from simply providing emergency, temporary solutions for homelessness to actively addressing the root causes of generational poverty. Today, it is one of the largest providers of housing to homeless families in the city, sheltering over 100 children on any given night. Through its emergency family shelters, supportive housing programs, and affordable housing communities—such as the renovated Peterboro Arms Apartments in Midtown Detroit—COTS ensures vulnerable families have a safe and stable place to call home. Alongside shelter, the organization provides vital daily resources, including meal assistance and the Bright Beginnings childcare service.
The cornerstone of the organization’s modern approach is its Passport to Self-Sufficiency™ (PTS) framework. Rather than just offering direct services, this holistic model provides families with individualized coaching and mentorship across five key pillars: housing and family stability, financial well-being, health, education, and career development. By building intentional relationships and partnering with community organizations and corporate sponsors, COTS goes beyond immediate relief, empowering families to overcome systemic roadblocks, achieve long-term independence, and thrive for generations to come.
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