NEWSPAPERS n o i t i d E l a i c e p S
LOCAL NONPROFITS AIM TO END HOMELESSNESS BY FURNISHING HOMES BY KATHRYN PENTIUK kpentiuk@candgnews.com
METRO DETROIT — Humble Design is turning houses into homes with its unique approach to ending the cycle of homelessness. It all began in 2009 when Treger Strasberg, the CEO and founder of Humble Design, was new to the Detroit area. Upon discovering that her new friend, a mother of two, was homeless, she helped the family find a new place but soon realized that it wasn’t enough. The family was sleeping on the floor, and that was a thought that Strasberg could not bear, so she got to work. Strasberg began collecting items for the family by looking to other friends for donations. Through this process, she was able to furnish and decorate the space in a way that reflected the family and instilled confidence. Since 2009, the nonprofit has grown from its Detroit origins to serve Chicago, Cleveland, San Diego and Seattle. Humble Design has furSee HOMES on page 4A
JANUARY 31, 2024 candgnews.com Oakland County papers
Instructors from Mount Brighton teach festivalgoers about skiing and snowboarding at last year’s Winter Blast in Royal Oak. This year’s Winter Blast is scheduled for Feb. 2-4. File photo by Patricia O’Blenes
Chill in downtown Royal Oak at the annual Winter Blast BY TAYLOR CHRISTENSEN tchristensen@candgnews.com
ABOVE: After escaping an abusive relationship and facing homelessness, Humble Design transformed Shaniece’s place into an inspiring space where she can raise her daughter. TOP: Last June, Humble Design decorated Shaniece and her 1-year-old daughter’s home, providing a safe and comfortable environment for the two. Photos provided by Chris Tull
ROYAL OAK — Winter is not over, and the Winter Blast is going to prove it in downtown Royal Oak in February. Hosted by Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort, patrons can expect live music, free ice skating, ice sculptures, a zip line, food trucks and the addition of a medieval fair. The event will be taking place Feb. 2-4 in and around Centennial Commons and the Royal Oak city center. This event is literally based off the winter weather, according to event producer Jon Witz. “We’re going to be working with Mother Nature,” he said. “If it’s cold enough before the event, not only will we make a ski hill, but we’ll add a tubing run, so you might see that pop up.” See WINTER BLAST on page 6A