Part 5 – Systems That Work: Mariners Inn, CHS, and the Call for Federal Reform

Two key voices on the panel brought depth and structure to the conversation: Shalonda Spencer of Mariners Inn and John Stoick of Community & Home Supports (CHS).

Shalonda described how Mariners Inn houses people in recovery. The transitional housing lasts from four months to two years, while permanent supportive housing can span five years or more. Services include employment help, recovery support, and skill building.

John Stoick explained that CHS runs outreach teams that go into the streets and shelters to help people get vital documents and connect with housing partners like Mariners Inn.

But John was clear: Detroit’s $40 million in federal funding is not enough. Cities like Los Angeles get over $500 million.

He also noted a critical problem in how homelessness is measured. The federal definition only includes those in "places not meant for habitation"—but what qualifies as that? Substandard homes with no heat, no water, or mold don’t get counted.

"That definition needs to change," John said. "And we need to bring in capital investors and business leaders to solve this."

As Mason wrapped the forum, he emphasized using government reluctance to our advantage: "They don't want to do it, but they'll help you do it yourself."

Stay tuned for the next "Solutions Not Slogans" forum, and get involved at 1059KissFM.com.