We’re here to help.
Have questions about Family Promise of West Michigan? Find answers on donations, getting help, volunteering, and more. If you don’t see what you’re looking for, contact us here.
General Information
Do you accept used items or only new?
It depends on the item! We welcome some gently used household items like sheets, towels, pots, pans, blankets, coffee makers, toasters, and dishware, as well as gently used children’s clothing. As a general rule, feel free to give it if it’s something you’d feel comfortable giving to a loved one! Other items like hygiene items, children’s underwear, and cleaning products must be new for safety reasons. If you’re unsure if an item is a good fit, give us a call!
Where can I drop off items and when can I donate them?
We accept donations (with the exception of non-perishable food) at our Family Resource Center located at Buck Creek Community Church located at 3746 Byron Center Ave SW, Wyoming MI 49519 on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 10am to 2pm. You do not need to make an appointment. Follow the signs for the Family Resource Center when you arrive!
Non-perishable food can be accepted at our main offices on 516 Cherry St. SE. Please email volunteer@familypromisegr.org with what food you are bringing and to set up a drop off time!
Are there other items you accept seasonally?
Yes! Because of the small size of our donation space, there are some items we can house only in the season when our families need them. We accept backpacks and school supplies in the summer to help kids get ready for the new school year. In the fall and winter we accept used and new winter coats to keep families warm on chilly Michigan days, and new toys and books among other items to stock our Annual Christmas Store!
Donations
Do you accept used items or only new?
It depends on the item! We welcome some gently used items like household wares and linens. As a general rule, only donate the item if it’s something you’d feel comfortable giving to a loved one. Other items like personal hygiene products, bed pillows, and cleaning supplies must be new for safety reasons. If you’re unsure if an item is a good fit, give us a call!
Where can I drop off items and when can I donate them?
We accept donations at our Family Resource Center located at Buck Creek Community Church (3746 Byron Center Ave SW, Wyoming, MI 49519). The Family Resource Center is open Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 10am to 2pm. No appointment is necessary. Follow the signs for the Family Resource Center when you arrive.
With advance notice, arrangements can be made to drop-off donations at our main office at 516 Cherry St. SE. Please call us at 616-475-5220 or email volunteer@familypromisewm.org to schedule a drop-off.
Is my donation tax deductible?
Yes! In-kind and monetary donations made to Family Promise of West Michigan are tax deductible. At the time of your donation, you will have the opportunity to request a receipt.
Where can I donate items Family Promise is unable to accept?
There are a wealth of worthy organizations in our community that give new life to all kinds of wonderful donations. Mel Trotter Ministries, In the Image, and Women’s Resource Center accept adult clothing. Salvation Army and Habitat for Humanity accept large appliances. Local thrift stores like New 2 You, Mel Trotter, and Goodwill accept home decor, luggage, toys, books, and children’s clothing. Kent County Animal Shelter occasionally accepts used stuffed animals. Alpha Grand Rapids accepts new and gently used strollers and other baby supplies.
Unfortunately, few local resources are able to accept used mattresses and car seats because of liability issues. For tricky to donate items, try posting for free on Facebook Marketplace to get items into the hands of those who can use them!
Where can I donate furniture to best support families in need?
We partner with Habitat ReStore for furniture donations. What’s wonderful about this partnership is that the more furniture we send to ReStore, the more vouchers we are able to give to families moving home. Families are able to use these vouchers to purchase items that best fit their needs. To view accepted items and schedule a pick-up, visit habitatkent.org/restore or call 616-647-9292.
Covenant Furniture Ministry is another local organization that often accepts furniture that ReStore may not. Visit covenant-crc.org/furniture or call 616-455-5120 to inquire.
How do I make a financial donation?
Financial donations are greatly appreciated online or by mail. Visit our Donations page to learn more.
How To Get Help
Who can call 2-1-1 for help?
Any family without a safe place to stay can call 2-1-1. You don’t need to know if you qualify—specialists will walk you through your options.
What should I bring if we come to shelter?
Bring any essentials you can, like medications, important documents, and personal items. If you don’t have these, don’t worry—our team will still make sure you and your children are safe and supported.
How quickly can my family get help?
2-1-1 specialists are available 24/7 and will connect you to the nearest available shelter or safe temporary housing.
Can my children stay with me in shelter?
Yes. Family Promise ensures parents and children stay together as a family unit, rather than being separated.
What if I have young children or a baby?
Family Promise provides early childhood support, including safe spaces, age-appropriate care, and resources to keep your little ones healthy and engaged while you stabilize your housing.
