Detroit Nonprofit Helps Homeless Man and His Dogs Find Housing

The Karens, a local animal advocacy group, stepped in to assist Andre Gee and his pets get off the streets.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A Detroit man named Andre Gee, who had fallen on hard times after the death of his partner, found himself living on the streets with his two dogs, Darla and Mimi. The Karens, a local animal outreach group, stepped in to help Gee and his pets get off the streets and into a new apartment, raising funds and gathering supplies to support the family.

Why it matters

This story highlights the challenges faced by those experiencing homelessness, especially when they have pets that rely on them. The Karens' efforts demonstrate the power of community support to help get people and their animal companions back on their feet.

The details

Several months ago, Gee's partner of 18 years, Dustin, passed away. Gee sold his Jeep and spent all his money on Dustin's funeral, leaving him broke and homeless. Gee, Darla, and Mimi ended up living in a tent on the streets of Detroit. That's when Gee met Melanie Thomas and Chantal Rzewnicki, better known as The Karens, an animal outreach group. The Karens raised money to put Gee, Darla, and Mimi in a hotel during dangerous cold weather. Thanks to support from multiple local organizations, including Noah at Central, Gee was able to move into a new apartment a week ago.

  • Several months ago, Gee's partner of 18 years, Dustin, passed away.
  • When dangerous cold weather came to Southeast Michigan, The Karens raised money to put Gee, Darla and Mimi in a hotel.
  • Gee moved into a new apartment a week ago.

The players

Andre Gee

A Detroit man who fell on hard times after the death of his partner and ended up living on the streets with his two dogs, Darla and Mimi.

Melanie Thomas and Chantal Rzewnicki

Also known as The Karens, a local animal outreach group that stepped in to help Gee and his pets get off the streets and into a new home.

Noah at Central

A local organization that helped support Gee's transition into his new apartment.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Those are my babies. They keep me alive, you know? Because when I'm down, you know, I mean, they make sure I'm not down, and, like, they take good care of me.”

— Andre Gee (cbsnews.com)

“Andre is a great dog owner. He provided for the dogs when he didn't have anything, and that showed in the condition of the dogs. We deal with a lot of owned pets that are in terrible condition. And from day one, Andre chose his dog over himself every single time, and he would still today.”

— Melanie Thomas, The Karens (cbsnews.com)

“I can't even explain it, but there is, you just meet some people, and you just give your all because you know that they deserve it.”

— Chantal Rzewnicki, The Karens (cbsnews.com)

“Don't let that blessing pass you by. If someone's willing to help you, let them.”

— Andre Gee (cbsnews.com)

What’s next

The Karens are hoping to raise additional funds to provide Gee with a comfortable bed for him and his dogs.

The takeaway

This story demonstrates the power of community support to help those experiencing homelessness, especially when they have pets that rely on them. The Karens' efforts show how small acts of kindness can make a big difference in someone's life.