GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — Monday's frigid temperatures are sparking a “Code Blue” by Mel Trotter Ministries, which is opening an emergency shelter for people without a warm place to stay.
The overnight emergency shelter at 225 Commerce Ave. SW will be open from 4 p.m. to 7 a.m., according to the organization. Mel Trotter Ministries is also keeping its warming center open until 4 p.m., waiving its curfew and accepting all men and women, even those who have been previously banned. The nonprofit group says there will be specific rules in place to ensure everyone is safe.
Degage Ministries is also extending its hours to help more people stay out of the potentially dangerous cold. Its day center at 144 S. Division will be open from 7 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Additionally, Mel Trotter the following locations also host warming centers:
- Alano Club of Kent County | 8 a.m. – 9 p.m. daily
- Exodus Place | Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. – 5:15 p.m. (Men only) | Website
- God’s Kitchen | Sunday, 2:30 p.m. – 4 p.m. and Monday through Saturday, 12:30 p.m. – 2 p.m. (Except first Friday of month)
- Guiding Light Mission | During extreme temperatures only
- Grand Rapids HQ | Ages 20-24: Monday, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. and Tuesday and Thursday, 12:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.; Ages 14-19: Monday through Thursday, 3:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
- Heartside Ministry | Monday through Friday, 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
- Park Church | Fridays, 10 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
- Westminster Presbyterian Church | Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
The cold weather is amplifying an issue Mel Trotter says is already in West Michigan: a homeless crisis caused by a shortage of shelter for families. Those who have no place to stay are encouraged to reach out for assistance by calling 2-1-1.