Dear Community,
Last year, after extensive discussions among community groups aimed at strengthening regional support for those experiencing homelessness, the Traverse City Commission formally requested that Safe Harbor develop a two-year plan to provide emergency overnight shelter year-round. Safe Harbor began assessing the operational challenges of year-round operation while also seeking funding to sustain a year-round budget.
A broad network of generous supporters—including the City of Traverse City, Grand Traverse County, and an inspiring list of organizations and private philanthropists—committed the necessary funding to keep the shelter open for the next full year. While we have received some commitments of financial support from local government and organizations, private donor support still makes up nearly half of our operating budget and will remain critical as we go forward.
We have embarked on the first year of a two year pilot of year-round operations. Safe Harbor is fortunate to have a dedicated network of volunteers who play a core role in operations, and we approach year-round recruitment with gratitude and confidence.
In order to facilitate ongoing dialogue with the community and key stakeholders, we are holding quarterly Community meetings, open to all interested members of the public. These meetings provide an opportunity to ask questions and share about ongoing shelter operations. Each will take place in the McGuire Room of the Traverse Area District Library from 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm.
Monday, June 23rd, 2025
Tuesday, September 30th, 2025
Tuesday, January 6th, 2026
Tuesday, April 7th, 2026
Tuesday, July 14th, 2026
Tuesday, October 6th, 2026
Thank you for your support,
Safe Harbor Board