Vista Maria ends residential program amid investigations

Vista Maria, a facility for vulnerable girls in Dearborn Heights, has closed its residential youth mental health program and laid off nearly 130 employees due to social, systemic, and regulatory factors. Investigations revealed serious issues, including allegations of sexual assault and staff training lapses, leading to a temporary freeze by the state and a decision to shut down the program. Despite these challenges, Vista Maria is focusing on strengthening other services such as foster care and juvenile justice, while considering future uses for the residential buildings.