Women & Children's Shelter

Michigan Nightlight: What really differentiates this program?
Mel Trotter Ministries’ Women’s Advocate Lynn Whalen: I believe what really differentiates this program from others is the extensive variety of gifts, talents, and abilities in operation here at the mission to accomplish a common goal. While there are many gifts and talents in each department they all come together in an intricate way to produce the same outcome.
 
Each woman with or without children that comes in to our shelter is welcomed by staff and assisted in settling into their room. They are invited daily to partake of three free meals and a snack in the evening. Each lady is assigned a case manager that

The children are greeted with love at every turning corner and provided a full floor within our facility dedicated to their fun, growth, and development.

will “walk” with them through their time here, providing guidance and assistance specifically tailored to their needs.
 
The children are greeted with love at every turning corner and provided a full floor within our facility dedicated to their fun, growth, and development. They also regularly attend group outings to places such as Meijer Gardens, The Children’s Museum, and the YMCA. Summer time also provides wonderful outdoor adventures for the children such as Vacation Bible School, outdoor activities at Mel Trotter Ministries’ park, and summer camps. The women shelter guests have up to 60 days to stay and utilize our staff and facilities to help move them forward into a more stable self-sustaining environment.
 
What are the keys to success for your program?
The main key to success of our program is keeping God as our focus. This allows unity to flow throughout the mission producing optimal results among well trained staff. When guests arrive at Mel Trotter Ministries they are made to feel welcomed through the kindness of the staff, exceptional food, and a warm clean place to sleep. We offer a holistic approach 

When guests arrive at Mel Trotter Ministries they are made to feel welcomed through the kindness of the staff, exceptional food, and a warm clean place to sleep

to our guests from the beginning to the end of their stay through the variety of programs and opportunities.
 
What existing challenges remain with this program and how do you plan to overcome them?
The challenge is a continually changing environment. When you work with people, no two are the same. This requires us to be sensitive to each individuals needs by actively listening and assess how to best serve each guest and meet them at their point of need. This will more than likely never change, so remaining tenacious in our jobs is essential.
 
How do race or diversity affect the work of your program?
No two people are the same whether they differ in race, background, social class, etc. I wouldn’t say that this necessarily affects the work of our program. Rather, I believe it provides a great opportunity for everyone involved to learn, grow, and come together because ultimately despite any differences we all want to see “people” at their best.