Housing has long been an issue in Duluth, and one new collaborative development seeks to offer shelter to those experiencing homelessness.
Located in Duluth Heights, Plover Place provides a space for people experiencing homelessness to live. The multi-organization collaboration has taken a new approach to construction; an approach that stems from both functionality and necessity. “Construction costs are very high and might be getting higher,” says Joel Kilgour from Stepping On Up Duluth. With financial limitations in mind, a team got together to explore options. “Out of several weeks of conversations came this new model of housing.” The result was a plan for micro apartment units with a shared kitchen and living space.
“I think that housing is more than just a roof over your head. There’s also this communal aspect to it,” said Case Manager Sam Wunch who also notes that there is a set of criteria for residency. "In order to live at Plover Place, there are three things,” said Wunch. "Sixty-five and older, or have a certified disability or disabling condition. There is an income limit, you have to be under that income limit. And then have to qualify as long-term homeless, so living unhoused for a year or four times over the course of 3 years."
Plover Place is taking referrals off of the coordinated entry list to find residents. People can call 211 and ask for a housing assessment to be added to the waitlist for this and other programs. Additional information for those seeking residency and for those wanting to make a contribution via the gift registry can be found on the Stepping On Up website.
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