Kinzie Builders announced today the start of construction on Harbour House, an emergency shelter in Des Plaines, Ill., that will provide temporary lodging and support services for young women (ages 12 to 20) and transgender youth experiencing homelessness. In partnership with OKW Architects, Inc., Kinzie is providing construction services at a reduced rate to The Harbour, the Park Ridge, Ill.-based not-for-profit organization that will operate the shelter.
The new 3,500-square-foot building will include housing for up to 10 residents and common spaces such as a kitchen/dining area, great room, main office, intake/therapy room, study, laundry room, storage/utility space and shared bathroom facilities. The shelter is projected to open in February 2022.
“Since Kinzie’s founding 10 years ago this summer, we made a pledge to give back to the community both in terms of financial support, as well as by donating our time and talents,” said Steve Spinell, founder and principal at Kinzie Builders. “We couldn’t think of a better way to pay forward our success than to have a hands-on role in helping The Harbour continue its mission, which over the past 50 years has helped thousands of young women experiencing homelessness create a path for their own personal success. We are beyond grateful to have this opportunity.”
Currently, The Harbor operates a shelter in proximity of the new site, but the existing facility is unsuitable for renovations. The new $1.34-million project was delayed from its original start date due to the impact of the pandemic on fundraising efforts. Kinzie Builders is among the many supporters who stepped in earlier this year to keep the project moving forward by not only offering its services at a reduced rate, but also by engaging sub-contractors to do the same, passing the additional savings on to The Harbour.
