Detroit’s Make It Home Program: Transforming Renters into Homeowners

No matter the race, religion, or family structure, every person shares a universal longing for a place to call home. Home is where love is celebrated, where gratitude meets safety, and where peace provides a foundation for life’s most cherished moments. Yet, for many, securing that sanctuary is anything but simple. It’s not just about money; it’s about access, resources, and navigating systems that too often fail to uplift those who need it most. Homeownership is an investment that requires intentionality, collective support, and a commitment to creating pathways for those who have been locked out for far too long. The road to homeownership for many Detroit families has often been riddled with barriers, especially for those navigating the impact of systemic inequities. However, the Make It Home program, a collaboration between the Rocket Community Fund, the United Community Housing Coalition (UCHC), and the City of Detroit, has created a pathway to stability and generational wealth for residents at risk of displacement. Since its inception in 2017, this program has helped more than 1,600 families transition from uncertain renters to secure homeowners, with nearly 100 families joining that list this year. Families in Detroit have long faced challenges when it...