Girlstown Residential

We provide a safe, nurturing home for girls ages 10 to 17 in the foster care system.

What Is Girlstown?

Girlstown is Guiding Harbor’s longest-standing and most recognized program. Since 1958, it has provided care for over 1,000 young women in Michigan’s foster care system. Located in Belleville, Michigan, Girlstown isn’t just a residential facility—it’s a home where healing, growth, and renewed possibility are central.

We serve girls aged 10 to 17 who are already placed in Michigan’s foster care system. Many have experienced trauma, instability, or emotional/behavioral challenges that make traditional home settings difficult.

Our Approach & Care Model

At Girlstown, we meet each young person with compassion and consistency. Our structured, therapeutic environment is designed to support healing and empower growth.

Individualized Planning

Every girl at Girlstown receives a personalized plan of care designed to meet her unique needs and strengths. This plan may include mental health and psychiatric services, educational support, life skills training such as budgeting and cooking, and guidance for building healthy relationships. By tailoring support to each resident, we help her gain the tools and confidence needed to heal, grow, and prepare for her future.

Supportive Environment

Our team of therapists, psychiatrists, case managers, and youth specialists creates a home-like setting that is both structured and supportive. Residents take part in individual and group therapy, attend local schools, and live in a community that fosters trust and stability. With consistent care and encouragement, each girl develops resilience, builds healthy coping skills, and moves toward greater independence.

How to Help

Your support—whether through time, donations, or advocacy—helps us provide safety, healing, and hope for every girl at Girlstown.