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Celebrating the New Christ Child House

Celebrating the New Christ Child House

Feb 11 2026

More than 200 members, donors, elected officials, community leaders, project partners and friends gathered on February 11 to celebrate the opening of the new Christ Child House, marking a transformational milestone for Christ Child Society of Detroit and a new chapter for the boys who will call Christ Child House home.

The ribbon cutting represented far more than the completion of a new building. It marked the culmination of nearly eight years of vision, perseverance and extraordinary generosity, resulting in a home designed to help boys who have experienced trauma find safety, healing and hope.

Christ Child House provides trauma-informed residential treatment for boys ages 6 to 16, along with foster care services for children and families. Every space in the new home was created with one purpose: to help each boy feel safe, build confidence and discover the possibility of a brighter future.

A Community’s Vision

What began as a bold vision became an extraordinary volunteer-led effort. From early planning through fundraising, design and construction, members of Christ Child Society of Detroit shepherded the project every step of the way, working alongside donors, foundations, corporate partners and community leaders to bring the vision to life. Together, they raised $14.7 million to create a home that will serve children for generations to come.

More than a successful campaign, it became a powerful reminder of what is possible when a community comes together around a shared purpose.

Designed for Healing

The new Christ Child House was intentionally designed to support healing in both big and small ways. Every decision, from the overall layout to the individual spaces, was made with the goal of creating an environment that better supports each child’s treatment, encourages connection and provides the consistency children need to thrive.

From spaces that foster learning and recreation to those that help boys feel calm and comfortable, the home was built to complement the care taking place each day and help every boy move forward.

What Matters Most

The true impact of the new Christ Child House will not be measured by bricks and mortar, but by the lives changed within its walls. Every child who walks through its doors will have the opportunity to experience safety, rebuild trust, discover hope and imagine a brighter future.

This is more than a new home.

It is a place where hope begins.

Executive Director Maria Lessnau cuts the ribbon alongside former Christ Child House residents
and past presidents Laura Keziah, Chris Schwartz, Elaina Ryder and Sarah DuBay.
Laura Keziah (R) with former CCH Executive Director John Yablonky and his wife Mary Jean.
District 7 Manager Lynda Jackson (L), Executive Director Maria Lessnau,
District 7 Councilman Denzel Hines-McCampbell and CCS President Sarah DuBay (R).
Executive Director Maria Lessnau (C) with Judith Fischer, CEO of Wolverine Human Services (L) and Janet Reynolds-Snyder, executive director of Michigan Federation of Children and Families (R).
Executive Director Maria Lessnau (C) with Judith Fischer, CEO of Wolverine Human Services (L)
and Janet Reynolds-Snyder, executive director of Michigan Federation of Children and Families (R).
Guests enjoy a reception in the Provost Art and Recreation Center before touring the house.
Guests enjoy a reception in the Provost Art and Recreation Center before touring the house.
Fr. Grimaldi shares an encouraging message for the new Christ Child House on the Pulte Family Foundation Campus.
Fr. Grimaldi shares an encouraging message for the new Christ Child House on the Pulte Family Foundation Campus.