Grand Rapids Community Expands Support for Homeless Amid Winter Weather

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — As winter temperatures continue to drop across West Michigan, community organizations are stepping up their efforts to support those experiencing homelessness. On Tuesday, Degage Ministries held a volunteer training session aimed at preparing individuals to staff newly established warming and day centers in the city.

With the cold weather making outdoor conditions increasingly dangerous for vulnerable populations, volunteers at Westminster Presbyterian Church’s new day center are seeing an uptick in attendance. The center, which opened in response to the growing need for daytime shelter, has become a critical resource for individuals who have nowhere else to go during the day.

Brian Kamstra, community resource coordinator at Westminster Presbyterian Church, explained the urgency of expanding services. “We had been hearing from some of our community partners, like Degage Ministries, that there was a need for more places for people to go during the day,” Kamstra said. “Particularly when the weather gets really bad or really cold, like it’s been recently.”

The volunteer training session, which focused on trauma-informed care, is part of an ongoing effort to provide effective and compassionate assistance. Nelson Koon, a representative from Degage Ministries, emphasized the importance of understanding the complex emotional and psychological challenges faced by individuals experiencing homelessness.

“Being homeless in and of itself is traumatic,” Koon said. “You’re living on a 24-hour time cycle, not knowing where you’re going to sleep tonight.” He further explained that when engaging with individuals in need, volunteers should prioritize empathy and respect, noting, “When approaching someone who is experiencing homelessness, always offer your name first. That’s more of a conversation than an interrogation.”

Westminster’s day center operates on Mondays and Wednesdays from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., offering a safe and welcoming space for those in need. However, organizers say they are seeking additional volunteers to help expand the center’s hours and services.

“We would love to increase our availability to the community,” Kamstra said. “But right now, we just need more hands to make it happen.”

As the cold weather continues, the need for more volunteer support and resources remains urgent. The partnership between local churches, organizations like Degage Ministries, and dedicated volunteers is helping to create a lifeline for those struggling to survive in difficult conditions.

Community members interested in volunteering or learning more about how they can help are encouraged to reach out to Westminster Presbyterian Church or Degage Ministries for more information.