Mattawan Teen in Urgent Need

Emergency - Mattawan student urgently in need of support.

(We are fundraising for a minor, so we’ll refrain from using his name and face.)

In August of last year, a Mattawan teenager’s life was forever changed when his legal guardians were shot on the pier in South Haven. From that horrible day in August until the first of this year, that young man lived with and was cared for by our family.

We are Mark and Angi Polderman, lifelong Mattawan residents whose children attend Mattawan Schools and the University of Michigan. Together we own a local small business and have been active in our support of the Mattawan schools and community. We are honored to be able to open our home to this deserving young man. We have provided him with a safe home, love, and support, allowing him to continue his growth trajectory as a great student and a terrific young man. He has long been a close family friend, but this experience truly made him a member of the Polderman family. From making sure he received much-needed therapy to providing a wonderful Christmas, we were happy to be able to offer those things and more. Our daughter even gave him her bedroom so he could be as comfortable as possible during those months.

This bright 17 year old recently moved in with us again permanently and has nothing to his name. His needs are many, but with our family's and the community's assistance, he should have a bright future! He is currently seeking summer/after-school employment and is anxious to have his own transportation. In addition, he’s eagerly researching colleges that support his field of interest. In the immediate future, he needs clothing, shoes, a computer, his driver’s license and a vehicle (which he’s eager to work toward). Within the next year, he will have the usual extensive costs associated with any child his age - Senior photos, AP exam fees, college application fees, college tuition, dorm needs and general living expenses.

We have been fortunate to be able to provide so much for him, but adding an unplanned 4th child to our home comes with great expense. We hope to ensure this young man is provided for so he can successfully launch into the next chapter of life!

This young man has volunteered hundreds of hours of his time to serve others. ♥️ We know this community and the surrounding areas to be so generous and encouraging, filled with big-hearted people. Our gratitude is enormous for any amount given. Thank you for your outpouring of love and help in building a firm foundation for this wonderful young man!