Project development partners Mariners Inn and Cinnaire Solutions have completed The Anchor at Mariners Inn, a 65,500-square-foot facility that includes residential treatment and housing programs designed to expand critical services for metro Detroiters battling substance use disorder and homelessness.
Located at the corner of Cass Avenue and Ledyard Street (west of Little Caesars Arena), The Anchor is the latest milestone in Mariners Inn’s 100-year history. As of March 1, 2025, the apartments at The Anchor were fully occupied.
“Mariners Inn has been a cornerstone of recovery in Detroit for decades, and with The Anchor, they will be able to make an even greater impact on the lives of people who need the supportive services they offer,” says Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan.
“With this beautiful new facility located in the heart of our sports and entertainment district, it not only strengthens our community’s support network, but also reinforces our commitment to creating a Detroit for everyone.”
The $25.9 million project, which broke ground in late 2023, doubles Mariners Inn’s capacity to serve Detroit residents in need, while also expanding services for women for the first time.
Residents began moving in as early as December 2024. The facility offers housing, job training, medical and health services, therapy, career education, and more to help individuals in their recovery journey.
“The Anchor is more than just a building. It is a new chapter for our community, one that gives people a chance to break free from the cycle of addiction and homelessness,” says David Sampson, CEO of Mariners Inn. “This new facility will help us serve even more people and save even more lives, making a true difference in our community.”
The building features 40 fully furnished recovery housing apartments for individuals with substance use disorder, and 44 permanent supportive housing units for those coming out of homelessness.
Mariners provides a range of vital services such as private counseling rooms, therapy spaces, prevention programs, and family support. Mariners Inn’s new medical and mental health clinic will offer holistic support to individuals on their path to recovery from substance use disorder.
“The development of The Anchor is the culmination of years of hard work and collaboration between our partners and the community,” says Christopher Laurent, president of Cinnaire Solutions and co-developer with Mariners Inn on the project.
“Our goal has always been to create an environment that fosters dignity and opportunity.
“The Anchor’s prominent locations, within walking distance of key employment hubs, will ensure that residents have access to both stable housing and the tools they need to thrive and, through its visibility, act as a beacon for those contemplating their own recovery.”
The facility also marks a transformative step for Mariners Inn by allowing the organization to serve women’s programs for the first time. Mariners Inn is repurposing its existing buildings to create new spaces, including a kitchen, cafeteria, and emergency shelter.
The development was supported by the city of Detroit, Michigan State Housing Development Authority, and the Federal Home Loan Bank of Indianapolis. Funding partners included National Equity Fund, Flagstar Bank, MASCO, and The McGregor Fund.
The Anchor is a joint development project between Mariners Inn, Cinnaire Solutions, and Ethos Development Partners.
“The Anchor at Mariners Inn represents a powerful step forward in expanding access to stable housing and critical support services for Detroiters in need,” says Chad Benson, director of development at MSHDA.
“By combining permanent supportive housing with recovery services, this project creates a vital pathway for individuals to rebuild their lives. We are proud to support this development through federal housing tax credits, ensuring more Detroit residents have access to safe, affordable homes and the resources they need to thrive.”
As one of the area’s most respected recovery centers, Mariners Inn serves nearly 2,000 clients each year. Since 1925, Mariners has provided professional and compassionate substance-use treatment to homeless men, helping them regain their health, independence, and self-esteem.
“At National Equity Fund, we value working with partners who share in our mission and vision that increased access to affordable housing empowers every individual and family to reach their full potential,” says Kristen Senff, managing director central region at NEF.
“The Anchor is a testament to what happens when partners committed to uplifting vulnerable communities come together through thoughtful collaboration. Now, those recovering from substance use disorders and homelessness not only have the opportunity to survive, but the ability to thrive in an environment that supports their growth and independence.”
Dave Denomme, chairperson of Mariners Inn Board Chairperson, says the board’s “goal was to remain not just in Detroit, but at our present location. This new facility allows us to serve and help so many more people.”
For more information, visit Mariners Inn or Cinnaire Solutions.
