Ruth Ellis Clairmount Center Opens in Detroit
The Ruth Ellis Clairmount Center has officially opened in Detroit, Michigan. Everyone from Detroit city officials, Ruth Ellis representatives, Full Circle Communities developers, LBBA, community residents, and other project team members joined in the monumental celebration.
This $16 million, 44,000 square foot development was once just some vacant lots in Detroit. Today, the new affordable housing is being called a “beacon” for LGBTQ+ at-risk youth who may not have a safe place to live or get healthcare.
The new development contains 43 units of permanent supportive housing for homeless or at-risk LGBTQ+ youth.
Learn more about PEA Group’s involvement here.
Mural of Ruth Ellis by Detroit artist Ijania Cortez
About Ruth Ellis
Founded in 1999, Ruth Ellis Center is named after prominent Detroit LGBTQ+ member Ruth Ellis, who provided shelter and support to those in the Detroit LTBTQ+ community. Born in 1899, Ruth came out as a lesbian in 1915, and in the 1930s, Ruth became active in providing support to fellow LGBTQ+ members. She opened her home to those in need of help, providing them shelter until they were able to get back on their feet.
Since opening its door, Ruth Ellis Center has been committed to upholding Ruth’s selfless dedication to the LGBTQ+ community. The Center has developed a national reputation for both innovation and quality in its support services for LGBTQ+ youth and young adults, particularly young people of color, those involved with the child welfare system, those who may be experiencing homelessness, and those who may have limited access to health and wellbeing. Ruth Ellis Center’s services include a street outreach program, foster home, drop-in center, and a health and wellness center.