Other Resources

The Department of Civil Rights works to prevent discrimination through educational programs that promote voluntary compliance with civil rights laws and investigates and resolves discrimination complaints.
The National Fair Housing Alliance (NFHA) is the voice of fair housing. NFHA works to eliminate housing discrimination and to ensure equal housing opportunity for all people through leadership, education and outreach, membership services, public policy initiatives, advocacy and enforcement.
HUD's Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity administers federal laws and establishes national policies that ensure all Americans have equal access to the housing of their choice.
Knowing you need help is one thing. Finding someone who can help is another. That's why in times of need the best number to call is 2-1-1, a new service from Heart of West Michigan United Way.

The Grand Rapids Housing Commission

Call 245-2600 or stop in their office located at 1420 Fuller Avenue SE

The Grand Rapids Housing Commission has Section 8 vouchers that provide monthly rental subsidies for people who cannot afford market rate rents. Under this program, people with Section 8 vouchers select their own apartment or house and sign an approved 1-year lease with the landlord. The full rent is paid to the landlord in two parts - one part from the tenant and the other from the Housing Commission. The waiting list is often closed to new applications, so call first - 235-2600.
Landlord/Tenants program at the
Grand Rapids Urban League

You can call this program at 235-2207. They provide counseling on a number of housing problems. In some cases, they may have funds to assist you in staying in your unit or moving to another apartment. Call for an appointment or stop by the Urban League at 745 Eastern Ave. SE.

Home Repair Services is a private non-profit organization working to equip lower income neighbors for successful homeownership (foreclosure prevention).
This organization is one of 85 affiliates working throughout the state to strengthen families and neighborhoods through partnership, house building, and affordable homeownership. Habitat for Humanity provides families who earn fifty-percent (50%) of area median income, an opportunity to become homeowners. Through sweat equity, home-buyer education, and a zero-interest mortgage, future homeowners develop pride which facilitates stability and growth for families and neighborhoods.
At the heart of ICCF are three main programs that offer services along the entire continuum of housing services. These programs include emergency housing, long-term affordable rental housing and home ownership opportunities educational services. ICCF strives to meet a family where they are in their housing needs and to provide the opportunities and encouragement to help them achieve success in realizing their housing goals.
Disability Advocates use an array of procedures to advocate for the removal of architectural, societal, and attitudinal barriers to independent living and assists individuals in getting the services and supports they need to maintain independence Staff, board members and volunteers work to affect changes in the community.
Serving Allegan and Ottawa counties, Disability Network concentrates its efforts on building communities that work. Disability Network assists over 2,500 individuals with disabilities and their families on an annual basis, connecting them with supports and services as well as providing training and mentoring. Staff members are specialists in the areas of housing, employment, transportation, accessibility, education, transition, and long-term supports. We also provide general information and referral services.
For more than 30 years, Legal Services funded agencies in Western Michigan have provided free legal counsel, advice, and representation to low income persons and seniors in non-criminal, non-fee generating matters.
The Dispute Resolution Center of West Michigan is a not-for-profit agency that offers mediation, conciliation, facilitation, and arbitration services as an alternative to court.
The National Fair Housing Advocate Online is a resource designed to serve both the fair housing advocacy community and the general public with timely news and information regarding the issues of housing discrimination.

Find out about our
Annual Fair Housing Luncheon & Workshop Series

20 Hall Street SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49507
Tel: (616) 451-2980, Toll Free: 1-866-389-FAIR
Fax: (616) 451-2657 email:
contact-us@fhcwm.org