Employer Housing Resources
Housing is a Workforce Investment.
Housing instability is not just a community issue — it is a measurable business cost. When employees struggle to secure stable, affordable housing, companies experience higher turnover, increased absenteeism, reduced productivity, and greater safety risks tied to long commutes and financial stress.
Recruitment and training expenses rise, operational consistency suffers, and the ability to attract and retain critical talent weakens. For CEOs focused on performance, growth, and competitiveness, housing stability is directly connected to workforce reliability and long-term business success.
The Bottom Line
The problem affects a large number of workers, making housing a significant employment barrier. The numbers tell the story:
- 53.2% of renters
spend more than 30% of income on housing, increasing financial instability - 25.5% of renters
spend more than 50% of income on housing, indicating severe housing instability risk - 1 in 6 renter households
face eviction filings, disrupting employment stability and workforce retention - 14.5% higher job loss risk
among workers experiencing eviction or forced moves, increasing employer replacement costs
Practical Solutions for Today’s Workforce
Practical solutions for today’s workforce include employer-assisted housing, cross-sector partnerships, and strategic investments that increase access to stable, affordable homes near jobs.
Employers who address these issues can realize:
- Lower turnover costs
- Stronger productivity
- Operational reliability
- Wider Talent Pool
- Long-term growth
Employer Housing Resources in West Michigan
Click on the titles below to learn about resources available to those experiencing housing instability in West Michigan.
Habitat for Humanity
What housing-related services or supports do you offer?
Habitat for Humanity provides affordable homeownership opportunities, critical home repairs, and accessibility improvements for qualifying families and individuals. Our programs include new home construction, major home repairs that improve safety and livability, and specialized projects such as ramp installations and aging-in-place modifications. We also provide homebuyer education and financial readiness support to help families successfully prepare for and sustain homeownership.
Where are your services available?
On-site and virtual, depending on the county served.
Habitat for Humanity Kent County
Montcalm County Habitat for Humanity
Cadillac Area Habitat for Humanity
Habitat for Humanity Lake County
Habitat for Humanity Barry County
Who is eligible to receive your housing services?
Eligibility is based on three main criteria: Income: Households must fall within established low-to-moderate income guidelines Need for housing: Applicants must demonstrate a need, such as overcrowding, unsafe living conditions, high housing cost burden, or accessibility challenges Willingness to partner: Homebuyers and repair recipients agree to partner with Habitat, which may include sweat equity hours, participation in education classes, and collaboration throughout the process We work with individuals, families, seniors, and veterans. Credit challenges do not automatically disqualify applicants; we focus on readiness and provide guidance for improvement when needed.
How does an employee get started with your organization?
Interested individuals can get started by: Visiting our website or contacting our office to complete an interest form Attending an information session (when required) Completing a formal application when applications are open Our team is available to walk applicants through the process and answer questions at any stage.
When can employees apply or access your services?
Application periods vary by program: Homeownership program: Applications are typically accepted during designated open periods Home repair and accessibility programs: Often available on a rolling basis as funding allows Because funding and construction schedules affect availability, there may be waitlists, and timelines can vary.
What costs are involved for participants, if any?
Costs depend on the program: Homeownership: Families purchase their home with an affordable mortgage. Down payments are kept affordable, and monthly payments are designed to fit within a sustainable budget. Sweat equity hours are also required. Home Repair & Accessibility: Many repairs are offered at low or no interest repayment terms, grants, or subsidized costs depending on funding sources and household income. We work to ensure housing solutions remain affordable and sustainable for each household.
How long does the process typically take from first contact to receiving support?
Timelines vary by program and funding availability: Homeownership: Often 9–18 months from application to move-in Home repairs or accessibility projects: Typically 6-8 months from approval to project completion, depending on scope and contractor schedules We communicate regularly with applicants about their status and next steps.
Is there anything employers should know when sharing your resource with employees?
Yes! Habitat for Humanity is a great fit for employees who: Are working but struggling with high rent, unsafe housing, or overcrowding Have steady income but cannot access traditional mortgage options Own a home but need critical safety or accessibility repairs Common misconceptions are that applicants must have perfect credit or be below the poverty line — neither is true. We encourage employees to reach out even if they’re unsure; our staff can help determine eligibility and next steps confidentially. Employers can help by sharing application windows, encouraging early inquiries, and reminding employees that the process takes time but leads to long-term stability.
ICCF Community Homes
What housing-related services or supports do you offer?
ICCF provides homeownership, rental assistance, and emergency shelter resources.
Where are your services available?
Mostly Kent County, on-site and virtual.
Who is eligible to receive your housing services?
Depends on the program—visit website for full details.
How does an employee get started with your organization?
For homeless services–go through 211. For homeownership services, start by signing up for homebuyer education courses (instructions are on the website).
When can employees apply or access your services?
All rentals currently have waitlists. Homeownership Services are currently available to any first-time home buyers.
What costs are involved for participants, if any?
$20-75 for Homebuyer education course (depending on platform). Fees can be waived with proof of hardship.
How long does the process typically take from first contact to receiving support?
Less than 1 week for homeownership programs. Ideally 1-2 business days but our intake specialist is currently out on maternity leave.
Is there anything employers should know when sharing your resource with employees?
Any first-time homebuyer can take our homeownership classes and participate in 1:1 counseling. The class must be taken first whether it’s through ICCF or another HUD approved agency. Most languages services are offered with interpretation fees.
New Development Corp
What housing-related services or supports do you offer?
New Development Corp provides homeownership assistance for target households (at or < 80% AMI).
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