Mel Trotter Ministries is the largest provider of services for the homeless in West Michigan, last year serving 5,531 people, up 11%.
“The need is just growing to a point where it's difficult to serve everyone in the community.”
Heather Osterink is the Director of Events and Volunteer Services. She says the number of people affected by homelessness continues to increase due to the lack of affordable housing, job loss, addiction and mental illness.
“The homelessness that’s happening is a community problem and we have an amazing community here in West Michigan that we hope can just come around and help us to serve those experiencing it.”
Mel Trotter Ministries is hosting its annual Easter Meal Wednesday, March 27 at its location on Commerce in Grand Rapids.
“This is a meal that is open to anyone who’s part of the Heartside community. We’ll be serving singles from 4-5:45 and then starting at six to seven, we’ll be serving families that stay with us, and then families in the community.”
Roughly 400 people are expected and Osterink says now is a good time for those wanting to help to get involved.
“I think the two best ways are donations, whether that be of items or finances, and then time.”
