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In Grand Rapids, Kent County, and surrounding areas, homelessness is exponentially increasing in locations we have never seen before. This, unfortunately, includes our entire country—so many cities in the U.S. are seeing homelessness numbers rise sharply more than ever before. We are aware of this and are working fervently with the City of GR, businesses, and other local organizations in town to help individuals and families leave homelessness for good.

It is no accident that thousands of individuals have begun or renewed their faith journey here at Mel Trotter Ministries. Ministry is at the core of who we are and what we do but we do not do it alone. Our faithful supporters play a vital role in sharing the love and compassion of Christ with men, women, and children experiencing homelessness.

If a person is intentional in this line of ministry work and diligently seeks to build relationships with the individuals whom they are serving by getting to know them as people rather than a circumstance, I am confident they, too, will come to the same conclusion I finally did: the problem of homelessness is much more complicated than “get a job.”

Rising temperatures are not just an inconvenience for your neighbors who don't have a place to live ... they're downright dangerous. When the heat and humidity rises, Mel Trotter enters "Code Red" to help protect those who are experiencing homelessness.

Mel Trotter Ministries remains open and continues to serve our struggling neighbors and our staff who are at high-risk of COVID-19.

For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. - 2 Timothy 1:7

I was recently asked the question, "Why do I believe it is so important for all people to acknowledge and celebrate African American (black) history month?"

And as I ponder over the question I find myself flooded with a whirlwind of emotions. To know that my origin is tied to a country with rich resources and some of the world’s most memorable and powerful kings and queens in history is a joyous yet somber feeling because I’ll never know the exact location of my roots.

As we close out the first month of the new year, we reflect on the inspirational message that was shared at our last program graduation. Board member Janis Petrini, Owner of Express Employment Professionals of Grand Rapids, shared with our guests that day that God knows every chapter to their story. He is in every small detail and has plans for each and every one one of them. This was her message to the graduates…

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.