For over 40 years, COTS has stood as a pillar of hope in Detroit, addressing the complex challenges of generational poverty and homelessness. What began in 1982 as a community-driven initiative to provide emergency shelter for single adults has since evolved into a comprehensive, family-centered organization dedicated to long-term transformation.
Today, COTS is on a mission to break the cycle of poverty, empowering families to achieve lasting stability through innovative, systemic solutions.
A Transformative Approach
COTS has shifted its focus from offering temporary relief to addressing the root causes of poverty through its groundbreaking Passport to Self-Sufficiency™ (PTS) framework. Anchored by five core domains, this holistic approach equips families with the tools and resources to overcome barriers and forge a path toward stability:
- Housing & Family Stability
- Health & Well-being
- Economic Mobility & Empowerment
- Education & Job Training
- Employment & Career Development
Through personalized coaching and goal-setting, COTS ensures sustainable progress for families, creating ripple effects of opportunity that extend across generations.
Brandy and Derrick’s Journey: A Testament to Transformation
Derrick and Brandy’s path to stability began on an unforgettable night. Forced to leave their home due to hazardous mold, the family—caring for their eight-year-old daughter, Ryann, who is on the autism spectrum—ended up sleeping in their car. Their challenges deepened as Derrick grappled with Crohn’s disease, and Brandy faced the daunting uncertainty of their future.
Their turning point came when they connected with COTS. “We didn’t even know about Peggy’s Place until we tried COTS,” Brandy explains. “When we came here, Rachel, one of the staff members, was truly there for us. She called around, found us a spot, and gave us the lifeline we desperately needed.”
At COTS, the family found more than shelter—they found a community. Brandy and Derrick embraced opportunities to grow, participating in workshops that taught financial empowerment, life skills, and community building. Brandy also completed the Bridges to Tech program with perfect attendance, gaining IT skills and a renewed sense of accomplishment. Derrick joined the Fatherhood Initiative workshops, finding camaraderie with other dads and tools to support his family.
The family’s journey took an unexpected turn when Detroit rapper Tee Grizzley made a surprise donation to COTS. This act of generosity helped Derrick, Brandy, and Ryann transition to a new home. “It wasn’t just about the money,” Brandy recalls. “It was about someone thinking of others and giving back to the city.”
Today, Ryann’s speech and social skills have flourished, Derrick is pursuing his dream of attending HVAC school, and Brandy works as a resident advocate, helping others navigate challenges she knows firsthand. “I was given a blessing, and now I get to be that blessing for someone else,” Brandy says.
Celebrating Resilience
One of the most inspiring ways COTS celebrates its families’ successes is through the Art of Family Gallery, a project that shares stories of resilience and progress. These narratives highlight the strength of families like Brandy and Derrick and demonstrate the transformative power of generosity and community.
To honor these achievements and continue supporting our mission, we invite you to celebrate with us at Soup City, our annual fundraiser, on January 23, 2025, at the Roostertail in Detroit. This special evening will feature delicious dishes from over a dozen local restaurants, live entertainment, and an opportunity to reflect on the impact we’ve made together.
Your participation underscores the vital role of donors and partners in fueling COTS’ work. Every contribution—whether time, goods, or financial support—helps create opportunities for families to succeed. Learn more about our programs, read family stories, and explore ways to support our mission at COTSDetroit.org
