Kayla Donaldson aids Detroit's homeless through Magdalene's Mission

Kayla Donaldson is a dedicated advocate for the homeless in Detroit. She focuses on helping vulnerable individuals, especially women who have experienced homelessness or sex trafficking. Donaldson often works at the Fort Street Presbyterian Church, where she prepares essential supplies for those in need. Donaldson has a personal connection to her mission. As a teenage runaway, she experienced life on the streets. "I had some good people, real angels, who helped me," she recalled. Inspired by her past, she started an initiative to fill purses with hygiene items for homeless women. This initiative grew into a nonprofit called Magdalene’s Mission, named after Mary Magdalene. Donaldson wants to be there for people during their toughest times. "It’s about restoring dignity and hope," she said. Her team provides hygiene products, warm clothes, food, and more to those who need it. Every Tuesday, Donaldson goes into Detroit to deliver supplies. She particularly focuses on women on the streets. The joy on their faces when they see her is her favorite part of the job. "They run across the street to hug us,” she said. Recently, Donaldson received the Go-4-It award, recognizing her work in the community. Donations and volunteer opportunities are available for those who want to support her mission.