Saginaw Chippewa Supportive Housing Complex

The family of Bodwé Professional Services companies collaborated with the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe to plan and design a mixed-use, 16-unit apartment complex to provide individuals and their families with safe, affordable housing and assistance while recovering from substance abuse disorders.

The Tribe and design team shaped the project to best serve its residents with immersive care to fully restore health, purpose, and belonging in the lives of those who inhabit the space.

Funded by a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development grant, the supportive housing complex offers affordable one- to three-bedroom apartment units. In addition, the complex features office space for supportive services, community laundry room, community kitchen, conference rooms, and public restrooms. Outdoor space includes a large stone firepit, basketball court and a 32-space parking lot.

The complex offers individual and group therapy onsite and provide residents with access to nearby medical services. Our design approach reflects tribal belonging throughout so when residents are in therapy, sharing a meal, or relaxing in private rooms they recognize their place in the larger tribal community, creating connections and lifelines that lead to lasting sobriety.

Shared spaces allow for residents to interact with one another with opportunities to mingle, socialize, share meals and create a network of support and accountability for one another. The same applies to family members spending time in the complex.

Supporting a loved one in recovery can be challenging and purposely fostering interaction with family members provides much-needed rapport and strength.

With the right infrastructure and planning, residents of the supportive housing complex can begin to establish routine, set healthy habits, connect to their tribal identities and regain their place within the wider community.