Mel Trotter Opens 24/7 Overflow Building
Mel Trotter Ministries recently opened an overflow building at 200 S. Division that's available 24/7, just up the street of its flagship ministry. It features a day center, 75 beds, laundry services and storage lockers. Heartside Ministry also will relocate to this location. "Strong" community partnerships helped to make the overflow building possible, said Dennis Van Kampen, president/CEO of Mel Trotter Ministries "From our many, many generous donors to our governmental, business and other shelter services partners, this work happens because we come together to do what Jesus said: love our neighbors," said Van Kampen. "It takes partnership, intentionality and yes, a whole lot of money to help those in need in our community. Operating 24/7 is a very big deal. It's exciting and much needed, but it is also extremely expensive. In fact, while 50 % of the funding for the new shelter comes from Guiding Light Mission, the City of Grand Rapids and Kent County (pending board approval), Mel Trotter Ministries will need to generate the remaining funding through private funding."
