Community Partnership Brings Transitional Housing Project to Life
Door County Medical Center (DCMC), in partnership with Habitat for Humanity and the Interfaith Coalition for Housing – Sturgeon Bay (ICH-SB), is proud to announce the start of renovations on a new transitional housing project designed to support families experiencing housing instability. A public ribbon-cutting ceremony was held on Tuesday, November 4, at 12:30 PM to mark the official launch of this collaborative effort.
Door County has a critical need for transitional housing. Unlike larger nearby communities, such as Green Bay, Sturgeon Bay lacks essential resources, including homeless shelters and supportive housing programs. During the last academic year alone, approximately 30 students in Door County schools met the federal definition of homelessness, demonstrating the local impact of housing insecurity.
“This project reflects DCMC’s deep commitment to improving the overall health and well-being of our community,” said Brian Stephens, CEO of Door County Medical Center. “By partnering with ICH-SB and Habitat for Humanity to provide safe, supportive housing for families in transition, we are helping build a stronger foundation for long-term stability, health, and hope.”
Renovations will transform a former Sturgeon Bay medical clinic into a temporary home for families facing crises. In addition to housing, residents will receive structured support, including case management, budgeting assistance, and housing transition planning.
The project originated from a collaboration involving ICH-SB, initially formed by local churches responding to needs within their congregations. These churches partnered with DCMC and Habitat for Humanity to tackle the shortage of transitional housing in Door County. The coalition also leveraged the Ecumenical Housing Partnership of Green Bay to create a model that balances housing access, accountability, and long-term planning.
Financial support for the initiative is provided by DCMC, grant funding, and member churches of ICH-SB, including HOPE Church, Sturgeon Bay Moravian Church, Bay View Lutheran Church, Christ the King Holy Nativity, and the Hainseville Lutheran Church.
Once completed, the home will serve as a safe and supportive environment for families actively working toward financial independence and long-term housing solutions. The program includes weekly case management meetings, financial counseling, and goal-setting to support employment, savings, and stability. Move-in for the first family is anticipated in the spring.
“This initiative is more than a building project, it’s a lifeline for families who need time, guidance, and compassion to rebuild,” said Lauren Daoust, President of the Interfaith Coalition for Housing – Sturgeon Bay. “We are honored to walk alongside them on that journey.”
