The Open Door Women’s Center at Dégagé provides a safe haven during the overnight hours to adult women in crisis. Staff is available during the day to assist with setting goals and exploring options for securing permanent sustainable housing. Christ’s love is reflected in a welcoming environment where women are encouraged to make positive lifestyle changes.

Who is eligible to stay in the Open Door?

The Open Door provides services for female residents of Kent County who are eighteen years of age and older and in need of shelter. The Open Door has a capacity of 40 women.

Men and children are not permitted.

Are there requirements to staying in the shelter?

All women are required to connect with the Salvation Army Housing Assistance Program (HAP). HAP will complete an assessment and determine if she is eligible for any housing resources.

Where is the Open Door?

Dégagé is located at 144 Division Ave S., Grand Rapids, MI 49503-4216, on the corner of Cherry St. and Division Ave. The Open Door is on the 3rd floor of our facility.

What are the hours of the Open Door?

The shelter opens at 7:00 p.m. Women are required to be in no later than 8 p.m.

Women wake at 6:00 a.m. and leave the Open Door by 7:30 am.

During the day, women may visit Dégagé’s Dining Room during its open hours or utilize Dégagé’s Services on the 2nd floor as needed.

Women are strongly encouraged to meet with the Open Door Patron Advocate to create and implement a plan to secure permanent housing. Weekly meetings can be schedule during the hours of 8:00 -11:30 a.m. and 1:00-3:00 p.m., Monday-Friday.

How much does it cost?

Staying at the Open Door is free.

Dégagé Dollars and cash can be used to purchase necessary items like undergarments and supplies, pay for laundry services.

Are reservations needed?

Women can check on availability and make a reservation to stay in the Open Door Women’s Center by going to the 2nd floor (Life Enrichment Center) at Dégagé. The hours of operation for the Life Enrichment Center are Monday- Friday, 8:00am to 11:30am and 1:00pm to 3:00pm. The women currently staying in the Open Door reserve their spaces nightly with the Open Door Staff.

Where do I sleep?

Mats are arranged in the common area of the Open Door.

What can I bring?

Women are encouraged to bring only the essentials and limit their belongings to one bag. Linens are provided. Storage space is limited, as all items brought in must fit in a standard size locker. Food and drink are not allowed.

How long can I stay in the Open Door?

The Open Door is intended to be a 90 day emergency shelter program. However, stays vary depending on each woman’s needs which is determined by the progress made by the patron. Women must demonstrate that they are close to securing housing in order to stay longer than the initial 90 days.