GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. -- Mel Trotter Ministries has been housing about 500 guests each night during the severe weather. And they expect to find shelter for more during the winter storm.
The shelter in Grand Rapids typically has 490 beds, but it has made room for 620 beds by placing cots and mats in common areas to meet the need. Adrienne Goodstal [[GOOD'-stahl]] is the Chief Engagement and Advocacy Officer for Mel Trotter. She tells WOOD Radio there is a great need for monetary contributions, clothing, personal hygiene items and food.
"We're always looking for those warm-gear items that you can imagine many people don't have," Goodstal said. "So, warm water-proof gloves, wool socks, hats, hand warmers, coats, heavy boots for folks that are living on the street and experiencing homelessness."
Goodstal expects Mel Trotter Ministries will get to full capacity this weekend, as more people in need are identified.
"We've got outreach teams that are going out all day and in the evening looking for folks that are unsheltered, and really encouraging them to come inside, which will increase the guest count that we normally see," she said.
he MTM Outreach team is working with the City's HOT team to check on people in the community while the storm lasts.
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