ASF’s first humanitarian project came to fruition on November 3, 2017. Ribbon Cutting Ceremony of the renovated foster home/cottage, also known as ASF Cottage, at Methodist Children’s Home Society (MCHS) Family of Services in Redford, MI was attended by over 200 supporters. With financial support from ASF, the upgraded cottage is a home to 10 foster children who can now enjoy a brighter future and receive much needed therapeutic care and moral support.
ASF was one of the key supporters of The Aaron and Helen L. DeRoy Freedom Center, completed in February 2020, at the Vista Maria’s Dearborn, MI campus. This new facility enabled Vista Maria to care for more children in their Wings treatment program for adolescent female survivors of human trafficking. The $4.9 million, 14,000 square foot treatment center is the newest and largest building on campus, equipped with an Emergency Intake Wing, and 16 treatment beds. ASF’s donation was primarily used for furnishing the treatment rooms that were meticulously designed to provide intensive therapeutic treatment and rehabilitation.
My Friend’s Place program at MCHS Family of Services, Detroit campus offers three components tailored for youth aged 18-24 experiencing homelessness: transitional housing, rapid re-housing, and a hybrid of the two. At this facility, which opened in August 2023, the residents receive comprehensive support including housing, resources, case management, and therapeutic interventions to ensure stability and long-term success. A financial grant from ASF will be used to provide care and services for up to 300 youth annually as MCHS plans to service up to 30 youth at one time.
Through generous support from ASF, the construction of the new outdoor pool and bathhouse commenced in January 2024 at the Vista Maria Dearborn campus. This pool will be a space for healing, growth, and connection for over 200 youth and families each year, who will benefit from water safety education, swimming lessons, and aquatic therapy – fostering recovery from trauma and building self-worth. The pool is slated to open in summer of 2024. We are proud to support this humanitarian endeavor which will provide life-changing opportunities accessible to foster children.