b'DAYTODAY Practical help with the operations and ministry of your organization ACROSS THE STREETAdrienne Goodstal and Allison EischerBridge of HopeHow church partnerships are bringing families together I f youve been in the nonprofit space for anyand help them work through a series of objectives length of time, you recognize that services andto bring them housing and financial stability. Here approaches are constantly evolving.are some ways that a program like Bridge of Hope At Mel Trotter Ministries (MTM), we make it helps ministries and their community members:a priority to be on the forefront of innovative solu-Local church awareness: During these 12 to tions to move the needle on homelessness. We hope18 months, families in the church group will get our tiny-home communityHope Villagewilla front-row seat to the challenges associated with be one of them. With the help of a new grant, wehomelessness and a chance to make a difference. aim to pioneer another needle-moving initiative.Your organization can then become the hub for Recently, MTM received a grant to develop afaith-formation resources that will help parents church-based ministry program called Bridge ofconnect this intentional time of serving together Hope. It is designed to help stabilize families facingas a family with spiritual development. homelessness, while also helping Christian parentsSpiritual unity: The program provides all disciple their children as they serve side by side.parents with questions to guide discussion with Bridge of Hope is a national program thattheir family, and explore Gods presence in their Adrienne serves as vice presidentMTM is bringing to Michigan for the first time inserving and being served. The curriculum helps of community engagement anda rescue-mission setting. Its a three-way partner- your families establish daily rhythms of prayer, advocacy for Mel Trotter Min ship between a church volunteer group, an MTMconfession of faith, and Bible reading/storytelling, istries in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Because of her position, the min case manager, and a family facing homelessness.as well as weekly and seasonal practices of istry has opportunities to engageThe church group, comprised of 6 to 10 peoplethoughtful giving and corporate worship.with key local decision makerswho receive Bridge of Hope training, will walkRestorative community: Overall, this initiative and bring awareness about issues surrounding homelessness. Inalongside the at-risk family for 12 to 18 months,is designed to create a restorative community addition, she leads the clinics,that includes both volunteer families and families outreach efforts, and housingfacing homelessness, one that grows together and program. Contact her at adrienne goodstal@meltrotter.org. offers constant opportunities for family disciple-ship. Your ministry has potential to become more about including those you serve in a safe and embracing community.We are excited for what God has in store as Allison serves as a marketingwe launch this program. We are trusting it will assistant at Mel Trotter Ministriesgrow and evolve over time. And we look forward in Grand Rapids, Michigan. With ato sharing our learnings with you. \x03passion for storytelling, she brings a unique perspective that captivates readers and inspires actionFor more information about Bridge of Hope, visit to help make a positive impact inwww.bridgeofhopeinc.org.her community.48 WWW.CITYGATENETWORK.ORG JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2024'