News Summary
The Grand Rapids Planning Commission has granted a special land use permit to Matthew’s House Ministry for expanding operations at a new location. Despite community opposition, the new facility at 1050 Leonard St. NW will enhance services for homeless and low-income residents, offering vital resources such as clothing, meals, and counseling. The ministry, founded in 2007, aims to address local homelessness concerns while navigating public safety apprehensions.
Grand Rapids – The Grand Rapids Planning Commission has unanimously approved a special land use permit for Matthew’s House Ministry, allowing the expansion of its operations despite community opposition. The new facility, located at 1050 Leonard St. NW, will expand from the current site at 766 7th St. NW and will cover 7,400 square feet. This expansion aims to enhance the services provided to homeless and low-income residents, including clothing distribution, hot meals, showers, and counseling.
Founded in 2007 by Pastor George Werkema, Matthew’s House currently serves between 80 and 100 individuals daily at its present location. The new site is intended to maintain the same level of service while offering additional facilities such as men’s and women’s bathrooms, showers, and a kitchen. The permit was a requirement due to the current property being zoned for traditional businesses.
The first public hearing for the permit application took place in May 2023. Following community concerns regarding the potential impacts on local business and safety, Werkema requested a 90-day pause to address these issues. The ministry has emphasized its commitment to collaborating with local law enforcement to alleviate public safety concerns related to the homeless population.
Despite the Planning Commission’s approval, the expansion faces vocal opposition from some residents and local business owners. Opponents have expressed fears that the new site will contribute to loitering, crime, and drug use in the area. Ed Ladwig, a resident and property owner, was particularly concerned about issues related to the surrounding homeless population escalating with the ministry’s expansion.
Supporters of Matthew’s House argue the ministry provides crucial services to those in need, helping to address homelessness in the community. However, criticism of the project has manifested through public campaigns against the ministry, including the display of banners and sending postcards to raise awareness and rally opposition.
In response to the concerns raised, Matthew’s House has reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of the surrounding community. The organization is dedicated not only to offering immediate assistance to at-risk individuals but also to advocating for the homeless and low-income residents in the broader community context.
With the recent approval, Matthew’s House Ministry is set to expand its reach and enhance the support it provides. The new facility aims to create a more effective environment for delivering essential services, reinforcing the mission of serving those in need while navigating the complexities of community reception and concerns about public safety.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Matthew’s House Relocation Sparks Controversy in Grand Rapids
Additional Resources
- MLive: Grand Rapids Approves Rescue Mission’s Expansion Plan
- Wikipedia: Homelessness in the United States
- WZZM13: Opposition to Expansion of Grand Rapids Mission
- Google Search: Matthew’s House Ministry Expansion
- Fox17: Grand Rapids African American Museum Expansion
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Safety
- Crain’s Grand Rapids: Buell Motorcycle Plans Expansion
- Google News: Grand Rapids Expansion News
Author: STAFF HERE GRANDRAPIDS WRITER
GRAND RAPIDS STAFF WRITER The GRAND RAPIDS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREGrandRapids.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Grand Rapids, Kent County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as ArtPrize, Festival of the Arts, and World of Winter. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce and Grand Rapids Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in furniture, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Steelcase, Spectrum Health, and Meijer. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREDetroitMI.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
