Home
The very word has an air of comfort and safety about it. The word instills visions of family, shelter, warmth, love and support – a place where you can connect with those closest to you in a familiar environment that can provide each of us the confidence to face the many challenges in life. Without a place to call home, the world around us can sometimes seem cold, unfeeling and simply too overwhelming to deal with. That’s why I want to focus on the power of home in my first message to you as the new CEO of Mel Trotter Ministries.
As my wife, Tammy, and I return to our home in West Michigan, we are both excited and comforted by this next chapter in our lives. Having previously lived in the greater Grand Rapids area, we know first hand the kindness and compassion of the people who call this place home. It’s a familiar place to us, where we genuinely feel the support and love of those around us. It powers our soul and the purpose of our work.
Likewise, the mission of Mel Trotter Ministries is very much about developing a sense of home for those in need of shelter and the support of others. The nearly 125-year history of the organization is a testament to its value in the community and to our neighbors in need. As the largest provider of services to people experiencing homelessness in West Michigan, the amazing staff does everything in its power to bring a sense of home to those who have nowhere else to turn. While those individual examples of compassion by our staff are powerful, it’s important for the public to understand all that Mel Trotter does each day in our community. Our Outreach Team helps those living on the street; its prevention and diversion programs help to stave off homelessness for individuals and families at risk; its workforce development and job training programs, in partnership with Next Step of West Michigan, teaches new skills and creates job opportunities for those seeking a new path forward in life. And the organization continues to open transitional housing and affordable apartments to help people obtain a new home to call their own. As you can tell, the impact of Mel Trotter Ministries is broad and truly inspiring.
As I begin my journey with Mel Trotter, I am grateful to return home to West Michigan. I know the comfort and support I already feel, both from the community and through our faith, will help my family and I as we reconnect to this great area. I thank all of you for a warm welcome, and your critical support for the important work done by our staff and volunteers at Mel Trotter Ministries. With their efforts, and guided by the compassion of Jesus Christ, we will strive to bring the comfort of home to all those needing our support in our community.
Blessings,
Chris Palusky
President/CEO
Mel Trotter Ministries
Jace found himself standing at the entrance of Mel Trotter Ministries, desperately seeking warmth as winter approached.
He sought refuge after his parents, frequent alcohol abusers, unexpectedly kicked him out. With a chaotic home life and fractured family ties, Jace had no alternatives and refused to endure another night beneath a bridge—that is when his brother dropped him off at the Mission. Once there, Jace wasted no time, enrolling in the program, meeting with a case manager who listened to his story, and beginning his journey toward stability, hoping for a new start.
Jace participated in the Momentum program, a four-week training in essential life skills needed to acquire and sustain employment. “I found it really motivating, the way the class was set up and everything. They try to change your mindset, getting you to think of positive things,” Jace said. He learned valuable skills like resume building, interviewing techniques, and financial literacy. His case manager, who genuinely cared about his progress, provided encouragement and guidance. While in the program, he volunteered in the kitchen, working 15 to 20 hours a week until he secured a job. “My case manager helped me find a job. They set up an interview and everything,” Jace shared.
After graduating from Momentum, Jace started his job working the first shift which he prefers and moved into a transitional house owned and operated by MTM—just in time for Christmas last year. His experience at the house was initially challenging but soon became a haven. Then he joined Next Step, a division of Mel Trotter Ministries that focuses on teaching technical skills in woodworking and manufacturing. Jace thrived in the program, gaining not just technical skills, but also a sense of purpose and direction.
With more tools in his toolbelt, Jace is focused on his future. He shared his dreams with us: “Definitely college… and I have enough saved up to purchase a car now. I still need to get a license, but once all that is done, I can possibly find my own place to live.”
Reflecting on his journey, Jace expressed gratitude for Mel Trotter’s support. “Without Mel Trotter, I’d maybe be at another shelter or still living under that bridge. This place helps a lot of people who are willing to try life. There are people that Mel Trotter uplifts, like it has for me,” he expressed.
Jace’s case manager, like a proud mentor, celebrates his achievements, stating, “It has been quite a journey for him, but he is a mature, persistent young man…super proud of him.” Throughout his time at Mel Trotter, Jace’s motto was “Just never give up. That’s the main thing. Never give up.”
Your generous support has gifted Jace a future filled with promise, a roof over his head, college courses to enrich his mind, and a job that provides a livable wage—thank you for being part of his Christmas miracle.
Hope Through Housing
An Update on Hope Village Apartments
We are thrilled to announce that Hope Village Apartments, located in the 49507 neighborhood of Grand Rapids, will soon welcome new residents! Designed to serve households who have successfully completed one of Mel Trotter Ministries’ workforce development programs, these apartments will be a place of hope for individuals and families who have experienced homelessness and are looking to get back on their feet.
Hope Village Apartments consists of 10 renovated studio units offering a fresh start and a supportive environment. Residents will feel right at home with the convenience of being connected to a training center and a community center.
Operated by Mel Trotter Ministries, this unique housing opportunity is a key part of our commitment to building stronger communities.
These apartments are income-based rental units, specifically available for individuals whose income qualifies them for this opportunity. This ensures that those in need have access to affordable housing, making it easier to embark on a journey of stability and self-sufficiency. The goal is to move the needle on homelessness by building affordable housing and providing individuals with a dignified place they can call their own.
Hope Village Apartments is not just a place to live, but a place where new beginnings are encouraged, hope is restored, and the community thrives! Together, we are working to end homelessness one life at a time.
Graduation Gifts
Packed with Care
Graduation bags are filled with everyday essentials and a certificate of achievement for our amazing graduates who are moving into their new homes.
James graduated and moved into one of MTM’s transitional homes. He has never lived on his own and when his case manager, Matt handed him his graduation bag, he started to go through it and said, “I didn’t even think about this! I would have been sleeping with no sheets at first.”
Another guest named Nolan smiled and said, “Now I can return the sheets I just bought and use that money towards food” when his case manager gifted him with a graduation bag.
Something so small can make a big difference. Together, we are ending homelessness one life at a time!
Thank you to everyone who attended Mel Trotter Ministries’ annual Season of Hope gala. What an inspiring evening learning about how Mel Trotter Ministries is more than you think! We are grateful for each and every one of you and your commitment to helping our neighbors in need.
A special thanks to the panel who shared passionately about the life-changing work we do daily at Mel Trotter Ministries and to Mayor Rosalynn Bliss for being in attendance and reminding us that when our generous and kind community comes together, we can truly do incredible things.
A huge shout-out to our Presenting Sponsor, Highstreet Ottawa Kent Insurance, along with all our other sponsors. Such a fantastic event could not have happened without your support.
