GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — One part of society not taking time off during the pandemic is the homeless crisis.
Homeless services provided by places like Mel Trotter Ministries in Grand Rapids have been deemed essential services by state and federal authorities.
“We’re seeing more people than we normally would this time of year. We’re seeing in singles an increase of about 25%,” said Dennis Van Kampen, president and CEO of Mel Trotter Ministries, which has cared for the homeless for more than a century and has no intention of stopping during the pandemic. “If Mel Trotter suddenly was closed tonight, there would be almost 400 individuals who would be on the streets with no one to care for them.
“What we’re seeing right now is that everyone is coming into the shelter, because, frankly, I think they’re scared,” he added.
People are coming for food and shelter, as well as care and compassion. There are also those who have no other option.
More at WOOD-TV.