There's More to My Story
#MTMStory
When you see someone who is homeless, who do you see? A lazy bum, an addict, someone who chooses to be homeless? If we knew the full story of what got that person to such a lonely place, would we still judge? There’s so much more to anyone's story than what we see on the outside.
At Mel Trotter Ministries, we don’t see people for their mistakes or their circumstances, we see people who are made in the image of God; people who have talents and gifts potential for a productive and happy future. Through the stories featured below, we hope you see that too.
Stories
My name is Jack. I am 45 years old, I live in Whitehall where I work as a Certified Nurse's Assistant. I'm involved in my church and I have a strong faith, but there's more to my story.
My name is Meagan. I grew up in a Catholic middle class family, but something tragic changed me when I was a teenager. Eventually I became homeless, but there's more to my story.
My name is Terry. I'm 67 years old and I am a master of several trades. I live in an apartment in downtown Grand Rapids... not far from where I used to live under a bridge. There's more to my story.
My name is Charlene. I was born in Muskegon, Michigan. My mom left my dad and moved to Grand Rapids when I was 6 months old. They said I was born drunk, they had to pump the alcohol out of my system when I was born. I was about 3 pounds, I was so small I fit in a shoe box. They had to keep me in the hospital, they didn't think I was going to make it. There is more to my story.
My name is Steve. I was making 6 figures with my flourishing chiropractic practice, I was married and had a great relationship with my wife and kids. Then I injured my wrist. That was my manhood and I couldn't handle it. There's more to my story.
Journal Information
If you want to receive a copy of a journal, email us at .
When you find that a journal is full, please mail or drop it off at one of the following locations:
- Mel Trotter Ministries Downtown: 225 Commerce Avenue SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
- Jenison Thrift Store: 7500 Cottonwood Dr., Suite D, Jenison, MI 49428
- Sparta Thrift Store: 538 S. State St., Sparta, MI 49345
Share Your Story
How Others Were Moved
We live entirely off funds from an IRA (Individual Retirement Account). Since tithing and donating to Mel Trotter and other similar organizations, our account total has never dwindled. Like the Scriptural account of Elijah and a can of oil used by an elderly lady whose son was miraculously restored from death, the can of oil she used for income, always remained full, regardless of use!– The Carpenters
Even though I have never had a connection to homelessness, I feel as if I can connect to each of these stories in some way… Meagan’s rebellion, Jack’s depression, and Charlene’s hope.– Abbey
When I read Steve’s story, I felt as if I was right there with him as he went through his journey. I felt his pain with him and felt compassion for his situation.– Dean
Volunteer Opportunities
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Flash Mob
September 8, 2018
We need volunteers to wear t-shirts and help disperse promotional items that share the stories of guests who are experiencing homelessness at Mel Trotter Ministries.
Sign Me Up -
Flash Mob
September 29, 2018
We need volunteers to wear t-shirts and help disperse promotional items that share the stories of guests who are experiencing homelessness at Mel Trotter Ministries.
Sign me up
Help Write the Next Chapter
You can help someone turn the page to a better life.