Stories
We tell stories to instill a true understanding of the struggles and successes of those experiencing homelessness. Get the fullest picture of the lives of those who walk through MCREST's doors by hearing their stories.
MCREST to open new shelter with donated Gardner White furniture
April 1, 2022
The day is finally arriving—on April 8, 2022, after years of effort, MCREST will cut the ribbon on our new women and children’s shelter in a ceremony attended by member churches, public officials, and the community.
MCREST raised more than $1.6 million through a two-year capital campaign to better accommodate and enhance the support provided to children experiencing homelessness and their families. More than 1,000 children experience homelessness in Macomb County every year...
Our Lady of Hope goes above and beyond in support of MCREST
April 1, 2022
Pat Dery always carries care packages in her car. She hands them out to people experiencing homelessness, or “anyone who could just use some hope,” she explained.
Dery has been living by that maxim as the MCREST coordinator for Our Lady of Hope Catholic Church, St. Clair Shores, for the past 33 years, nearly the 34 years that MCREST has been in existence. She was joined by others on her team, which includes members of St. Isaac Jogue’s Catholic Church, St. Clair Shores, who have...
Returning Home Campaign meets goal, ensuring that MCREST will continue to provide critical support services
April 1, 2022
MCREST launched our year-end Returning Home campaign with a $25,000 matching donation from Weingartz to continue to meet the increasing need for our emergency shelter services and permanent housing support during these challenging times.
“Our church partners, sponsors, and each individual supporter committed, this holiday season, to making a return home possible for Macomb County individuals and families experiencing homelessness” said MCREST Executive Director...
A Homeless Father Keeps Going for His Children
April 13, 2021
“That’s a determined man,” a MCREST case manager said of David (not his real name), age 55, who had just walked to the MCREST office to keep an appointment with three teenage children in tow, two with autism, even though he has a bad back and walking hurts.
“I have to keep pushing,” said David, a soft-spoken, slight man, bent with pain. “That’s what parents do for their children. There’s no one else to do it.”...
Moms for Moms Campaign meets goal of furnishing shelter
July 19, 2021
You did it! Because of you, we have been able to raise enough funds to create a warm and welcoming environment for Macomb County mothers and children experiencing homelessness. Because of you, we will be able to furnish our new shelter.
MCREST successfully raised $65,000 through the generosity of supporters like you to furnish the new shelter. MCREST especially thanks Christian Financial Credit Union...
Monica & Tre’s Story
July 19, 2021
Monica and her teenage son Tre came to MCREST in April 2021. They had been staying with someone while they were in the process of moving into their own place. Unfortunately, that person stole from them, and they had nowhere to go.
Monica and Tre qualified for the housing program that MCREST assists with. Monica and Tre were chosen by the group to qualify for the program that provides extra help. The agency that oversees the program contacted...
MCREST to Launch Moms for Moms Campaign to Furnish New Shelter for Macomb County Mothers and Children
April 13, 2021
Being a mom is challenging for any woman. But moms experiencing homelessness encounter unique challenges. At MCREST, we wrap moms experiencing homelessness and their children around with support to enable every family to transition to self-reliance. And, beginning May 1, you can help!
On May 1, MCREST will launch the Moms for Moms Campaign to furnish a welcoming and transformational new shelter that will provide services to mothers and children experiencing homelessness. ..
Malcolm’s Story
April 13, 2021
For Malcolm, untreated agoraphobia led to a downward spiral of lost jobs, eviction, and homelessness. But at MCREST, he made friends and came out of his shell. Now, he envisions a future where he has a home.
The blonde man with the Coke-bottom glasses and the Red Wings baseball cap—though pleasant, even friendly—seems nervous to find himself talking with a stranger. As he opens up, it becomes clear why Malcolm, 59, is anxious.