COTS (Coalition on Temporary Shelter)

Primary Contact Person: Robyn Smith
Phone: 313-831-3777, ext. 223
Fax: 313-831-4787
E-mail: cotscrc@aol.com

Location:
26 Peterboro
Detroit MI 48201

" . . . So, it's 2006 and we have been lulled into believing that this is the way our community will be. We've become numb. We can drive down Woodward Avenue and see a woman sleeping on the steps of a historic church and continue to listen to the radio. She has become a mere fixture. Well, for others, this unsightly fixture rperesents a hindrance to their business. COTS gets calls from businesses regularly, "Can you do something about the homeless person in front of my establishment, they're causing a problem?" Where is the political will? What happened to the value of human life? When driving down the streets of Detroit and seeing a homeless man, woman or child on the street I can't help but to think of my parents, siblings, friends and relatives. That's someone's mom, dad, brother, sister, child, (friend)? And, I want them to experience this wonderful life that I am enjoying. So, I can't drive by without inviting them to come in from the streets and get help. I don't ever want to be lulled into a state of devaluing human life. If there is ever to be a great renaissance in this city we've got to get back to the basics of valuing everyone: the haves and have-nots. Everyone!! We can't keep tossing a few coins to people to ease our own guilt. They are back the next day, the next week, for many the next year. We don't have to live in a society that accepts homelessness. There are solultions, we can end homelessness; but without the political will and earnest commitment of our community we will continue to aid and abet this ill through our indifference."

– "Value of Life," by Cheryl P. Johnson, CEO: 02/02/2006

Target Groups of Ministry: Homeless individuals and families

Current Needs: Donation needs include children's items, seasonal clothing, linens, gift certifiates, toiletries, non-perishable food, small kitchen and living room appliances (see website for more details). Volunteer opportunities include child care, working in the learning center or children's library, case planning, clerical support, food line assistance, data processing, receptionist, fundraising and more. Financial donations can be made securely online.

Most Helpful Attitude from Volunteer: Team player, committed to compassionate way of life

Events:
August 18, 2007: "Volunteer/Donor Appreciative Brunch" held at Peggy's place.

August 25, 2007: "Back to School" — School supplies distributed to homeless and low-income children in the emergency shelter and other COTS programs

October 24, 2007: "COTS 25th Anniversary Celebration" — Tickets available ($50.00). Call phone numbers listed above.

December 15, 2007: "Breakfast with Santa" to be held at the Club Venetian in Madison Heights from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Santa Shop for kids, games, face painting.

January 28, 2008: "Soup City" — 5:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at the historic Gem and Century Theatres, 333 Madison Ave. Detroit. If you are a restaurant that would like to particpate in the 2008 event please contact 313-576-0206 for additional information.

April 19, 2008: "ImaginAide" — COTS Premiere Event — Tickets may be purchased in advance or online, sponsorships are available.