Girlstown is Guiding Harbor’s longest-standing and most recognized program, one that has lovingly supported over 1,000 young women in foster care since its founding in 1958. Located in Belleville, Michigan, Girlstown is more than a residential facility, it’s a safe, nurturing home where girls, ages 10 to 17 and already placed in Michigan’s foster care system, begin their journey toward healing, growth, and renewed possibility.
Many of the girls who come to Girlstown have experienced trauma, instability, and emotional or behavioral challenges that make living in traditional family or community settings difficult. At Girlstown, we meet them with compassion and consistency, offering a structured and therapeutic environment tailored to their unique needs. Each client receives a personalized plan of care that includes mental health and psychiatric services, educational support, life skills development, and guidance toward healthy relationships and independence.
We believe that every child, teen, and young adult in foster care deserves to be seen, heard, and supported. With the help of a dedicated team, including a clinical therapist, psychiatrist, case manager, youth specialists, and more, each client is empowered to set goals and participate fully in her healing journey. Therapy is both individual and group-based, always centered around the client’s voice and personal experiences.
At Girlstown, girls live in a home-like setting and attend public schools in the community. They gain important life skills like budgeting, cooking, job readiness, and self-care, skills that prepare them for successful transitions to less restrictive environments or independent living. Staff encourage personal responsibility and growth, while also offering fun, enriching experiences like outings, game time, and earned privileges based on positive progress.
Above all, Girlstown is a place of healing, dignity, and hope. Whether helping reunify a client with their family or preparing them for a brighter, independent future, we are honored to be part of their journey, providing the care, structure, and continuous support they need to thrive.