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On #GivingTuesday we shared a need for an outreach van and our community stepped up to meet that need. God has provided through you! Special thanks to Express Employment Professionals of Grand Rapids and Berger Chevrolet and every donor who helped make this possible so we can go out and express the compassion of Christ to our neighbors experiencing homelessness. Everyone, meet the “HOPE Van”!!

While volunteering may be performed with the intention of helping others, studies show that those who give of themselves also receive. Researchers have attempted to measure the benefits that volunteers receive, including the positive feeling referred to as “helper’s high”, increased trust in others, and increased social and political participation.

By watching Julius interact with the guests, it’s clear that he loves and values each one of them. He helps them see that God has more for them. “I just try to help them understand that God hasn’t given up on them. They always smile when I say that, but I remind them that God woke them up for a reason, they have another chance to better their lives…”

The truth is, we all are created special, by a Loving God, who doesn’t make mistakes. We all have the ability to be a superhero in creating peace and joy. We have the insight to see how to make a table where diversity is a strength. We have the willingness to create doors for others to have a chance to walk through. Dreams are our light of hope that pushes us to new levels of life purpose and fulfillment.

At Mel Trotter Ministries, we see each person as made in the image of God with plans to prosper. Every day we pray for the important work we do for our guests, and for those experiencing homelessness in the greater Grand Rapids area. Will you join us in 31 days of prayer? One prayer a day could change a life.

It feels beautiful to have my kids back in my life, I was scared it was never going to happen for me.

During the cold winter months, Mel Trotter Ministries is in Code Blue status which is a term used to describe the most extreme winter conditions in West Michigan, when temperatures fall significantly and stay below freezing over a period of time — Putting men, women and children who are exposed to the elements at severe risk of hypothermia, frost bite, or even death. Now that you know Mel Trotter is in “Code Blue” what can you do to help someone experiencing homelessness during these cold winter months?

The first time Lake Effect Church came to Mel Trotter Ministries in June 2017, church leader Susie said, “About 12 to 15 of us showed up with a truckload of snacks all ready to lead people to Jesus! More people were interested in the snacks than in us, but we as a church were deeply impacted and we were all in as far as participating in chapel was concerned.”

The first time Lake Effect Church came to Mel Trotter Ministries in June 2017, church leader Susie said, “About 12 to 15 of us showed up with a truckload of snacks all ready to lead people to Jesus! More people were interested in the snacks than in us, but we as a church were deeply impacted and we were all in as far as participating in chapel was concerned.”