Homeless in Grand Rapids, MI

If you or someone you know is experiencing homelessness in Grand Rapids, you are not alone—and help is within reach. This site was created to guide you through the resources available in our city. Whether you’re looking for a safe place to sleep, a hot meal, emergency shelter, or long-term support like housing programs, medical care, or job services, we’re here to help you find the path forward.

Our goal is simple: to make it easier for you to get the help you need, when you need it. On this site, you’ll find up-to-date information on local shelters, food pantries, free clinics, and mental health services—as well as guidance on how to connect with caseworkers and programs that can support your journey out of homelessness. Every page is designed to be clear, compassionate, and practical. This isn’t just a website—it’s a lifeline.

You will find specific services listed below – if you have any to add, email us. Also, you will find articles with guidance and tips for assistance – please refer to there as needed.

Food Services

No one should go hungry. In Grand Rapids, several organizations offer hot, nutritious meals every day—free of charge and open to anyone in need. From breakfast programs to evening dinners, you’ll find welcoming spaces at churches, community centers, and outreach kitchens ready to serve with compassion. Whether you’re looking for a single meal or ongoing support, help is available all across the city.

The Pantry (Green Apple Pantry)
Provides grocery bags to families without an appointment during open hours.
? 4307 Kalamazoo Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49508
? 616‑455‑9411
? www.thegreenapplepantry.org

Downtown Food Pantry (Westminster Presbyterian Church)
Emergency monthly food and personal care for downtown Heartside residents.
? 47 Jefferson Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
? 616‑717‑5581
? foodpantry.westminstergr.org

Grand Rapids Coalition to End Homelessness
The Grand Rapids Coalition to End Homelessness is a collaborative of more than 60 organizations, agencies, municipalities, and individuals who come together with the shared goal of ending homelessness. 
? 118 Commerce SW Grand Rapids, MI 49503
? 211
? https://endhomelessnesskent.org/

North End Community Ministry (New City Church)
Emergency monthly food and personal care for downtown residents.
? 214 Spencer NE
? 616‑454-1097
? http://necmgr.org/

Northwest Food Pantry & Resource Center
Serves individuals and families with food, clothing referrals, and other aid. Open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings.
? 1224 Davis Ave NW (inside Trinity Reformed Church), Grand Rapids, MI
? 616‑451‑4036
? www.victimservicesprogram.org

St. Alphonsus Food & Clothing Center
Client-choice pantry for food and clothing, open once a month for residents of northeast Grand Rapids.
? 228 Carrier St NE, Grand Rapids, MI
? 616‑588‑0671
? www.stalphonsusgr.org

Salvation Army – Kent County Food Pantry (Cure Hunger)
Offers packaged groceries and assistance through their community services hub.
? 1215 East Fulton St, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
? 616‑459‑3433 ext. 1328
? www.centralusa.salvationarmy.org/kentcounty

Dégagé Ministries Dining Room
Serves affordable meals daily; vouchers available for guests in need. Primarily supports women and the Heartside community.
? 139 Sheldon Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
? 616‑454‑1661
? www.degageministries.org

God’s Kitchen
Mobile food truck serving hot meals to those with limited access. Check schedules for locations throughout the week.
? Monday – Saturday, 12:30 to 2:00 pm
? 303 Division Ave S, Grand Rapids
? 616‑454‑4110
? www.ccwestmi.org

Community Christian Reformed Church
Provides a food pantry and community meals.
? 150 Burt St SE, Wyoming, MI
? 616-534-1779
? https://communitycrc.org/

Family Network of Wyoming
Offers food assistance and basic needs support.
? 1029 44th St SW, Wyoming
? 616-885-9919
? https://fntw.org/

Food Pantry at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church
Provides a food pantry for those in need.
? 1025 3rd St NW, Grand Rapids, MI

Streetlight Ministries Burger Night
Burgers and other food provided. Wednesday morning Men’s Bible Study (0600). Clothing provided in fall/winter.
? 2nd and 4th Saturday Evening from 5p-6:30p
? 515 Division Ave S, Grand Rapids, MI
? https://streetlightgr.com/

West Michigan Veterans Assistance Program
We assist homeless and near-homeless Veterans and their families who have need that are not being met by currently available services.
? Contact for hours – they have location in Wayland and in Grand Rapids.
? https://wmvap.org/

Groups that come to Heartside park periodically:

Kingdom Lights
Food, clothing, and ministry needs to the glory of Christ Jesus.
? Times Vary
? 616-920-1103
? https://www.kingdomlights.org/

City Impact
City Impact is a community center and outreach ministry in Cedar Springs, Michigan, dedicated to assisting individuals of all ages with physical and social needs. Food, clothing, and other supplies.
? 2nd Sunday of the Month @Noon
? https://www.cityimpactmi.org/

Be a Ruby
Founded in honor of late daughter, and guided by faith, their mission is to provide healthy food and essential basic needs on a regular basis to people in need.
? 1st 2 Saturdays and last 2 Sundays each month @1130 – food, clothing, and other supplies.
? https://bearuby.com/

Chili Man
Times Vary

Shelter, Showers, and More

Grand Rapids provides several emergency shelters for individuals and families in crisis. Covenant House Michigan offers 24/7 shelter and support for young adults (ages 18–24), while Dégagé Ministries serves up to 100 women nightly through its Open Door Women’s Center, also providing showers, meals, and ID help. Families can turn to ICCF’s Family Haven and Safe Haven Ministries, which offer private rooms, safety services, and round-the-clock staff support. Mel Trotter’s also provides emergency shelter for men and women.

If you’re unsheltered or need help navigating the system, the City’s Homeless Outreach Team (HOT) connects people directly to shelters and resources. Staffed by social workers and first responders, HOT works citywide and can be reached by calling 2-1-1. Additional help is available through the Salvation Army and other partners offering case management and housing referrals.

211 Help Line
Heart of West Michigan United Way. Call ,Text, or Dial 211 – Whether it’s a single parent looking for childcare, a senior without heat, or someone just released from the hospital without support. 211 meets people where they are and stays with them as they take the next step.
? 118 Commerce Ave SW, Grand Rapids, MI
? https://www.hwmuw.org/211

VA Homeless Services Center
Services for Veterans on the streets
? 620 Century Ave SW, Grand Rapids, MI
? https://www.va.gov/homeless/

Exodus Place
Assisting men in their transition out of homelessness
? 322 Front Ave SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504
? https://exodusplace.org/

Youth and Young Adult Housing
The Bridge; 1115 Ball Ave. NE, 49505 – 877-275-7792 or 616-451-3001 [Ages 10-17, Any Gender]
Youth Emergency Shelter (YES); 225 Commerce Ave. SW, 49503 – 616-454-8249 [Ages 18-24, Males Only]
Female Youth – Mel Trotter Mission; 225 Commerce Ave. SW, 49503 – 616-454-8249

Dégagé Ministries – Open Door Women’s Center
Emergency overnight shelter for up to 150 women nightly. Includes meals, showers, advocacy, and help with transitioning into stable housing.
? 139 Sheldon Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
? 616‑454‑1661 (after-hours line: 616‑437‑3409)
? www.degageministries.org

Mel Trotter Ministries – Men’s, Women’s & Family Shelter
Shelter open 365 days a year for men, women, and families. Includes meals, recovery programs, job help, and case support.
? 225 Commerce Ave SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
? 616‑454‑8249
? www.meltrotter.org

Covenant House
Open 24/7 for youth facing homelessness. Offers beds, meals, education support, job training, medical services, and a safe, affirming space.
? 26 Antoine St SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49507
? 616‑608‑1380
? www.covenanthouse.org

ICCF Family Haven
Shelter for families experiencing homelessness. Provides private rooms, 24-hour staff, and housing-focused case management. Entry often through 2-1-1 or local referrals.
? 701 Prospect Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49507
? 616‑247‑4949
? www.iccf.org

Safe Haven Ministries – Domestic Violence Shelter
Confidential, secure shelter for survivors of domestic violence and their children. Each unit includes a private bathroom and access to legal advocacy and housing support.
? 2627 Birchcrest Dr SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506
? 24/7 Crisis Line: 616‑452‑6664
? www.safehavenministries.org

Family Promise of West Michigan – Emergency Shelter for Families
Provides safe housing and stabilization for families in crisis, paired with case management and support services.
? 516 Cherry St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
? 616‑475‑5220
? www.familypromisewm.org

Dwelling Place: Liz’s House Transitioning Housing
Provides safe housing and stabilization for families in crisis, paired with case management and support services.
? Confidential
? 616‑459‑4652 or 616-426-3727
? Let me know if you have one!

AYA Youth Collective – Day Shelter for Youth
A drop-in space for youth (ages 14–24) needing a safe place during the day. Offers meals, showers, laundry, referrals, and supportive relationships.
? 320 State St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
? 616‑406‑3945
? www.ayayouth.org

Arbor Circle
At Arbor Circle, we are proud to be one of West Michigan’s most comprehensive providers of mental health counseling, substance use treatment, and family services.
? 1115 Ball Ave. NW
? 616‑456-6571
? https://arborcircle.org/

Special Housing Voucher Programs
The Grand Rapids Housing Commission (GRHC) was established by the Grand Rapids City Commission in 1966 to provide affordable housing for low-income residents and to eliminate substandard housing conditions.
? 1420 Fuller Avenue SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49507
? (616)235-2620 and 616-235-2600
? https://www.grhousing.org/voucher-special-programs

Guiding Light Mission
This faith-based long-term rehab provides a structured environment, dedicated staff, and comprehensive programming which includes evidence-based practices, life-coaching, spiritual direction, therapy, support groups, psycho-social education, and exercise.
? 255 Division Ave. S
? (616)451-0236
? https://guidinglightworks.org/

Teen Challenge
Our mission is to provide teens & adults freedom from addiction and other life-controlling issues through Christ-centered solutions. The National Office strives to accomplish that mission by empowering, educating, and equipping the local centers.
? Muskegon
? 855-363-2334
? https://teenchallengeusa.org/

Crossroads Bible Church
Many services offered – meals, showers, laundry, referrals, legal, medical, and supportive relationships.
? Tuesday 10am-12p
? 800 Scribner Ave., Grand Rapids, MI 49504
? 616‑301‑2904
? www.crossroads-bible.org

Showers:
– Mondays: 10 AM – 12 PM at City Life Church (574 Division S) 
– Tuesdays: 10 AM – 12 PM at Crossroads Church (800 Scribner Ave NW) 
– Wednesdays: 10 AM – 12 PM at Other Way Ministries (710 Fulton W) 
– Thursdays (every other week):10 AM – 12 PM at No Greater Love Ministries (1204 Eastern Ave SE) 
– Thursdays (every other week):10 AM – 12 PM at Plaster Creek Family Park (2401 Buchanan Ave SW)

Degage:
8:00am-12 Noon – OPEN MONDAY – FRIDAY
FOR SHOWERS & HAIRCUTS

Clothing Needs

Staying warm, dry, and clean is essential—especially when you’re living without stable shelter. In Grand Rapids, several organizations provide free clothing, shoes, coats, and personal hygiene items for individuals and families experiencing homelessness. Whether you need weather-appropriate gear, a change of clothes, or something specific for a job interview, there’s help available.

In The Image – Free Store

Provides emergency clothing, shoes, household goods, and hygiene supplies free of charge. Requires an intake appointment for new clients; walk‑in available on Wednesdays.
? 4255 Kalamazoo Ave SE, Grand Rapids
? 616‑456‑6150
? www.intheimage.org

St. Alphonsus Food & Clothing Center

Offers clothing and food once a month for residents in northeast Grand Rapids. Clothing: up to two outfits per person per month.
? 228 Carrier St NE, Grand Rapids
? 616‑588‑0671
? www.stalphonsusgr.org

The Other Way

We are a Christ-centered community development organization dedicated to supporting our neighbors on the Westside of Grand Rapids, MI. 
? 343 Atlas Ave SE, Grand Rapids
? Contact via website
? https://theotherway.org/

Helping Hands Mission Store – Clothing Voucher Program

Volunteer-powered resale store offering clothing vouchers through partner agencies. Vouchers can be redeemed in-store for free clothing.
? 1008 Leonard St, Grand Rapids
? 616‑228‑8669
? new.graceslist.org

Matthew’s House Ministries – Clothing Pantry

Open weekdays, provides clothing through their drop‑in center from 1–2 p.m. Also offers showers, meals, laundry, and transitional housing assistance.
? 766 7th St NW, Grand Rapids
? 616‑233‑3006
? www.matthewshouseministry.org

Salvation Army Kent County – Clothing Assistance through Thrift & Support Programs

The Salvation Army in Grand Rapids provides vouchers and assistance for clothing through its Adult Rehabilitation Center and community programs. Pairing recipients with vouchers or direct help at no or minimal cost.
? 1215 E. Fulton St SE, Grand Rapids
? 616 ‑ 452 ‑ 3133 (Thrift Store contact)

Street Light Ministries – Clothing Assistance

An outreach ministry that distributes free coats, blankets, socks, and shoes during textile giveaway events—especially in winter—alongside meals and other essentials.
? 515 S. Division Ave, Grand Rapids
? (844) 754‑7646

Medical and Mental Healthcare

If you’re facing homelessness in Grand Rapids, you don’t have to go without medical or mental health care. Local clinics like Catherine’s Health Center and Mercy Health’s Heartside Clinic offer free or low-cost primary care, including walk-in appointments, preventive screenings, chronic illness management, and mobile medical services at shelters and outreach sites across the city. These providers are equipped to meet people where they are, making health services more accessible for those without stable housing.

Catherine’s Health Center – Other Locations

Multiple clinics across the region—including Wyoming Clinic, Streams Clinic, and school-based centers—offering primary and behavioral healthcare.
? 616‑336‑8800 (call to locate nearest site)
? www.catherineshc.org

Network180 – Kent County Community Mental Health / Behavioral Health Crisis Center (BHCC)

24/7 crisis hotline and walk-in mental health support, substance use services, and mobile response team for adults and youth. Provides community-based access, stabilization, and access to ongoing care.
? BHCC: 260 Jefferson Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
? Crisis & Access Center: 616‑336‑3909
? Toll-free: 800‑749‑7720 or TTY/TDD 800‑649‑3777
? Mobile Crisis Response: 616‑333‑1000
? www.network180.org

Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services – Psychiatric Urgent Care & Outpatient Clinics

Comprehensive mental health services including urgent care, addiction recovery, outpatient therapy, inpatient treatment, and crisis response. Accepts walk-ins for psychiatric assessment.
? 300 68th St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49548
? Urgent Care & Admissions: 616‑455‑9200
? Outpatient Scheduling: 616‑258‑7500 or toll-free 866‑852‑4001
? Crisis Line: 800‑678‑5500
? www.pinerest.org

Pine Rest – StreetReach Outreach Program

Specialized outreach and recovery services for unhoused individuals experiencing mental health or substance use challenges. Offers SOAR benefits support, peer counseling, housing linkage, and case management.
? Mobile outreach across Grand Rapids
? 616‑258‑7543 (Mon–Fri, 8:30 a.m.–3:45 p.m.)
? www.pinerest.org

Michigan Department of Health and Human Services
Specialized outreach and recovery services for unhoused individuals experiencing mental health or substance use challenges.
? 121 Martin Luther King Jr. St. SE, Suite 200
? 616‑248‑1000
? https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs

Feonix Mobility Rising (Transportation Needs)
Transportation Needs and Services
? (833) 653-6544
? https://feonix.org/michigan/

Sanford Behavioral Health
Transportation Needs and Services
? (616) 557-7753
? https://sanfordbehavioralhealth.com/

Job Services

Finding work while homeless can feel overwhelming—but it’s not impossible. Grand Rapids hosts a variety of job services designed to help people overcome barriers and re-enter the workforce. Mel Trotter and Dégagé Ministries offer workforce development programs with training, resume help, and even paid transitional job opportunities. Women can find tailored support through the Women’s Resource Center, and those with employment gaps or justice-involved histories can get help from West Michigan Works!, Hope Network, and the Urban League. These services don’t just offer jobs—they offer hope, confidence, and a path forward.

Mel Trotter Ministries – Workforce Development / Next Step of West Michigan

Offers job readiness training, resume writing workshops, interview coaching, skills development, and paid transitional jobs in their social enterprises.
? 225 Commerce Ave SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
? 616‑454‑8249
? www.meltrotter.org

West Michigan Works! – One‑Stop Career Centers

Provides free employment services: job placement, training programs, apprenticeship opportunities, unemployment assistance, and career counseling. Multiple locations across Grand Rapids.
? Administrative Office: 215 Straight Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504
? 616‑336‑4100 or 1‑800‑285‑9675
? www.westmiworks.org

Women’s Resource Center – Strategies for Work

Career coaching, resume help, professional image training, mentorship, and job search support tailored for women.
? 1900 Plymouth Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI
? See website for contact
? grwrc.org

First United Methodist Church – The Work Program

Short-term paid work assignments for those facing homelessness or poverty—ideal for immediate income and work reintegration.
? 1145 Fulton St E, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
? Contact via church office
? www.grfumc.org/workprogram

Community Rebuilders

Offers rapid rehousing, job placement, project-based employment, case management, and re-entry support for individuals and families with employment barriers or housing instability.
? 1120 Monroe NW, Suite 220
? 616-458-5102
? communityrebuilders.org

Hope Network – Employment & Training Services

Supported employment, job training, transportation assistance, and workforce supports for people with disabilities, recovery needs, or systemic barriers.
? Grand Rapids-area sites
? Contact via website
? www.samaritas.org (includes Hope Network services)

70×7 Life Recovery

Faith-based reentry employment and life‑skills coaching for justice-impacted individuals. Their “Take Charge” or transitional employment program supports preparation and placement in meaningful work.
? 2950 Clyde Park Ave SW, Wyoming, MI 49509 (serving Grand Rapids area)
? 616‑454‑4925
? https://www.70x7liferecovery.org/

Frequently Asked Questions