Warren man self-funds homeless shelter as demand exceeds available beds

Warren, Mich. — As temperatures continue to drop across the region, nearly 50 homeless individuals in Warren received essential support during a free outreach event Tuesday. The Homeless Outreach Partnership Event, held inside Trinity Lutheran Church, brought together several nonprofit organizations and shelters, including Friend of the Father Foundation — one of the few shelters in Macomb County with open beds available.

Ray Deloatch, founder of Friend of the Father Foundation, began the program last year using his own savings to assist homeless individuals, including veterans and convicted felons, in finding purpose and stability. Deloatch, who serves in the Michigan State Guard Defense Force, emphasized that his work is driven by compassion rather than recognition.

“I’m not looking for a pat on the back, I’m not looking for anything like this,” Deloatch said.

The foundation operates year-round from its Warren location on Nine Mile Road near Lincoln High School, offering services beyond just winter shelter. Deloatch explained that their mission is to provide support regardless of the season.

“Our organization is all year around, here to fight when the weather is gone, when the summer is here,” Deloatch said.

While Friend of the Father Foundation still has available beds, other nonprofits report being at full capacity. Kara Black, director of homeless services for the Perfecting Community Development Corporation, noted that demand consistently exceeds available space.

“We’re always full, unfortunately we’re always full,” Black said. “I just have to tell them to call daily also share other resources with them, some other shelters they can possibly call, but unfortunately all the shelters are full.”

Friend of the Father Foundation is working to fill that gap in services. Alyssa Gienapp, the foundation’s director, said demand increases as temperatures drop.

“Especially with it getting colder, more and more people, trying to get in,” Gienapp said. “I know there’s not a lot of places out there right now, one of the only places taking people in right now.”

The event was part of a countywide initiative that also provided food and haircuts for anyone in need. The efforts highlight the urgent need for additional resources and support for those experiencing homelessness.

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