Not Fit for Beast nor Man

This Valentine Day weekend is the coldest we have seen this winter. Mel Trotter shelter volunteers have gone out in search of homeless folks in the Grand Rapids area to bring them in to their shelter, whether they have been formerly banned or not. That is an amazing expression of caring on this day meant to celebrate love!

OBK shelter would love to have the space to have our homeless community members who aren't looking for the "fixes" we offer to at least get out of the cold. But we just don't have the room. Last week we sadly turned away two families with children as we were at our legal capacity. 

This week we have had some successes with people finding employment and housing so now have a few free beds, but probably not for long.It is obvious that the problem is a mounting one and if we are to serve people in need, we need a larger space. We are exploring possibilities in the area and seeking funding.

We are blessed with a donation of venison from the recent deer cull in the city of Big Rapids as well as a donated pig from a 4 H volunteer! We will soon have a kitchen manager and will hopefully be allocated a grant from Mecosta-Osceola United Way to fund our manager position to include a "Teach Them to Fish" program--safe, nutritious, economical family meals! Part of the grant will fund local food sourcing.

The emphasis on volunteer recruiting, training and retention has a new focus. OBK wants its volunteers to feel they get as much, if not more, than they are giving. OBK is committed to helping volunteers feel comfortable and reach their personal goals as a volunteer.Trainings are most Saturdays at 10 am--just let us know if you plan to attend.

We are delighted to welcome Miranda, an FSU student, as our new Social Activities Coordinator. Miranda is adored by guests and has coordinated children's activities, a Super Bowl party and a Valentine's Day party, complete with a great meal and cookie decorating. No birthday will pass 
unnoticed at OBK this year! She gets it! 

If it has been too long since you felt your heart melt for those in need, please give us a call.
The opportunity of a lifetime is just a phone call away!