News and Blog
Stories from the Westside: News, Updates, and Neighbor Highlights
At The Other Way Ministries, every story begins with walking alongside our neighbors. Our blog is where we share the heart of our work—updates from our programs, reflections on community life, and stories of transformation from the Westside of Grand Rapids. Whether you're a longtime supporter or just getting to know us, we invite you to see how Christ-centered relationships are making a difference every day.
Eleven programs in Grand Rapids will see a big boost thanks to funding from the State of Michigan. The Michigan Department of Education awarded $50M to 130 organizations across the state to serve the youth in their community.
The holiday season is a time for gift-giving, gathering with family and enjoying a warm meal. For some, it can be a challenge to put food on the table. According to Feeding America, 1 in 7 people in West Michigan are threatened by hunger. Several West Michigan food pantries told News 8 that this year’s need is at its highest of all time.
Ter Maat, Richard John age 84, peacefully joined his Lord and Savior on September 13, 2023 in Grand Rapids, 20 months after being diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia. He was born on September 21, 1938 in Vesper, Wisconsin to John and Margaret Ter Maat. Dick married Helen Meylink on August 20, 1960. They have lived on the west side of Grand Rapids since 1964 when he accepted a call from Ninth Reformed Church after graduation from Western Theological Seminary. In 1967 he established The Other Way Ministries and served as executive director until his retirement in 2003.
Grand Rapids neighborhoods, food pantries and meal programs have long been supported by the Heartside Gleaning Initiative. Since 2014, 240,714 pounds of fresh produce has been collected and delivered to groups through free fresh food markets, Good Food boxes and distribution programs.
West Michigan food pantries and nonprofits are offering reduced services and are providing takeaway meals to those who need it amidst the COVID-19 food services restriction. Effective Monday, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer ordered that all restaurants and bars statewide prohibit dine-in services. Takeaway and delivery services are still allowed.
In 2017 The Other Way Ministries celebrated 50 years of community development on the west side of Grand Rapids, MI!
