<![CDATA[Mid Michigan Community Action

<![CDATA[Mid Michigan Community Action - Stories]]>Thu, 09 Apr 2026 14:11:46 -0400Weebly<![CDATA[Holly’s New Home]]>Fri, 23 Jan 2026 20:00:00 GMThttps://www.mmcaa.org/stories/hollys-new-home

After renting for six years, Holly, a hardworking single mom, was ready to take the next step. With guidance from her HUD Housing Counselor, she connected with MSHDA’s Down Payment Assistance Program, homebuyer education, and pre-purchase counseling.

On October 14, 2025, Holly officially became a homeowner. Even better? Her new mortgage payment is lower than what she was paying in rent, a powerful step toward stability and long-term savings.

We’re proud to celebrate Holly’s success and the impact of programs that help make homeownership possible!

Want to learn more about the services that help people like Holly reach their goals? Visit https://www.mmcaa.org/ to explore what we offer.

]]><![CDATA[Making Progress with Early Head Start]]>Fri, 09 Jan 2026 17:56:55 GMThttps://www.mmcaa.org/stories/making-progress-with-early-head-start

“My child has progressed so much with [Early Head Start] activities and enjoys it. The social play groups and field trips are an added bonus!” —Early Head Start parent

Early Head Start offers more than early learning! It offers growth, connection, and support for children and families. Through personalized home visits, engaging activities, group socializations, and community-based field trips, we help little ones learn and thrive in every area of development while also supporting caregivers every step of the way. 💛

Early Head Start serves those who are pregnant and children from birth through age 3 in Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, Midland, and Osceola Counties. Apply online at https://www.mmcaa.org/ehs.html or call or text 1-877-386-4406.

Head Start Preschool serves children ages 3–5 in Clare and Gladwin Counties. Apply at https://www.mmcaa.org/preschool.html or call 989-386-8075.

]]><![CDATA[Erica’s Journey Forward]]>Fri, 19 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMThttps://www.mmcaa.org/stories/ericas-journey-forward

Erica, a participant in MSHDA's Family Self-Sufficiency Program, has worked hard to maintain steady employment for the past five years. But like many, she’s faced challenges covering the cost of essential work clothing and shoes.

With support from Goal

Assistance, Erica was able to get brand-new work attire, shoes, and winter footwear, helping her feel more confident and prepared for the job she’s shown such dedication to.

We’re proud to celebrate this step forward with Erica and excited to see what’s next on her journey!

Curious how our programs support hardworking individuals like Erica? Visit www.mmcaa.org to learn more.

]]><![CDATA[Parenting is a big job, and you don’t have to do it alone.]]>Thu, 11 Dec 2025 15:00:00 GMThttps://www.mmcaa.org/stories/parenting-is-a-big-job-and-you-dont-have-to-do-it-alone

“Early Head Start helped me when I didn’t know if I could handle 4 young children. Being there for me helped me be a better mom for my babies!” —Beckie, Early Head Start parent

💙 Parenting is a big job—and you don’t have to do it alone.

Early Head Start is here for families from pregnancy through age 3, offering caring educators, developmental support, and help connecting to community resources. Whether it’s setting goals, tracking milestones, or just knowing someone is there for you, our program meets families where they are and supports them every step of the way.

Early Head Start serves those who are pregnant and children from birth through age 3 in Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, Midland, and Osceola Counties. Apply online at https://www.mmcaa.org/ehs.html or call or text 1-877-386-4406.

Head Start Preschool serves children aged 3–5 in Clare and Gladwin Counties. Apply online at https://www.mmcaa.org/preschool.html or call 989-386-8075.

]]><![CDATA[Policy Council is a place to discuss all things pertaining to the programs]]>Thu, 20 Nov 2025 15:00:00 GMThttps://www.mmcaa.org/stories/policy-council-is-a-place-to-discuss-all-things-pertaining-to-the-programs

“Policy Council is a place to discuss all things pertaining to the programs. I serve to be able to have a voice in what the Council decides. I like that my ideas are put into place!” Jennifer, Policy Council Member

Parents and guardians of children enrolled in our Head Start Preschool and Early Head Start programs are invited to join Policy Council—a group that helps guide and shape our early childhood programs. It’s a meaningful way to be involved in your child’s experience and have your voice heard!

Interested in joining? Contact
• Katelynn at 989-386-3805 ext. 1052 or kmckellar@mmcaa.org
—or—
• Vicki at 989-386-3805 ext. 1057 or vaugustine@mmcaa.org

✨ Want to be part of this incredible community? Enroll your child today!

Early Head Start serves those who are pregnant and children from birth through age 3 in Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, Midland, and Osceola Counties. Apply online at https://www.mmcaa.org/ehs.html or call or text 1-877-386-4406

Head Start Preschool serves children aged 3–5 in Clare and Gladwin Counties. Apply online at https://www.mmcaa.org/preschool.html or call 989-386-8075

]]><![CDATA[Darea’s Drive Toward Her Goals]]>Fri, 17 Oct 2025 14:00:00 GMThttps://www.mmcaa.org/stories/dareas-drive-toward-her-goals

Meet Darea, a Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) participant whose determination and resilience are truly inspiring. For quite some time, Darea had been completing her schoolwork using only her phone and public computers at places like the library—making the most of every resource available to her.

During a recent goal review with

her FSS Coach, it became clear just how much she had already accomplished. Now, with a new computer, she’s even better equipped to take on her educational and personal goals.

Darea shared how incredibly grateful she is for the support she’s received through the program, and her coach described her as an absolute joy to work with.

We’re so excited to celebrate Darea’s progress and can’t wait to see what she’ll achieve next!

The FSS Program supports individuals with Housing Choice Vouchers as they work toward greater financial stability and long-term goals. If you have a Housing Choice Voucher and are interested in FSS, contact the housing agency that manages your voucher to find out how to get started.

Discover more about how we can help you and your home—whether you rent, own, or are anywhere in between:
https://www.mmcaa.org/housing.html

]]><![CDATA[Early Head Start supports not just young children—but entire families]]>Thu, 09 Oct 2025 14:00:00 GMThttps://www.mmcaa.org/stories/early-head-start-supports-not-just-young-children-but-entire-families

“A great supportive program that aids in your child’s well-being. Set goals and help achieve them and gives motivation. Free books also ensure that you’re taking the time to focus 100% on your child’s learning.” Gloria, Early Head Start parent

💙 During Head Start Awareness Month, we’re celebrating how Early Head Start supports not just young children—but entire families.

From helping parents set and reach their goals to promoting strong early learning habits through free books and resources, Early Head Start is designed to meet families where they are and walk alongside them every step of the way.

Early Head Start serves those who are pregnant and children from birth through age 3 in Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, Midland, and Osceola Counties. Apply at https://www.mmcaa.org/ehs.html or call or text 1-877-386-4406.

Head Start Preschool serves children aged 3–5 in Clare and Gladwin Counties. Apply at https://www.mmcaa.org/preschool.html or call 989-386-8075.

]]><![CDATA[Weatherization reduces stress and supports health!]]>Wed, 08 Oct 2025 15:39:53 GMThttps://www.mmcaa.org/stories/weatherization-reduces-stress-and-supports-health

Weatherization reduces stress and supports health!

Theresa has noticed improvements in her daily comfort and health—and is saving on fuel.

“My propane is lasting longer. My health has been good. I now feel relieved and less stressed,” Theresa, Weatherization customer.

📍 Weatherization is available in: Bay, Clare, Gladwin, Lake, Mason, Mecosta, Midland, Muskegon, Newaygo, Oceana, and Osceola Counties

📞 Call or text your local office to learn more:
Bay City: 989-894-9060
Big Rapids: 231-660-0271
Farwell: 989-386-3805
Gladwin: 989-426-2801
Shelby: 231-923-3066
Midland: 989-832-7377
Muskegon: 231-557-7622
Reed City: 231-791-7078
📧 Email: contactus@mmcaa.org 🌐

Learn more: https://www.mmcaa.org/weatherization.html

]]><![CDATA[If I’m in need of resources, Early Head Start will help!]]>Thu, 25 Sep 2025 04:00:00 GMThttps://www.mmcaa.org/stories/if-im-in-need-of-resources-early-head-start-will-help

“I love the 1-on-1 time my kids get from the teacher. Early Head Start makes sure they’re hitting their milestones. If I’m in need of resources, Early Head Start will help!” Sarah, Early Head Start parent

💛 At Early Head Start, every child and family matters. Educators build strong relationships and provide personalized support to help each child learn, grow, and meet important developmental milestones.

But the support doesn’t stop with the child—Early Head Start also helps families set goals, connect with resources, and feel confident in their parenting journey. It’s about nurturing healthy development and strong futures, together.

Early Head Start serves those who are pregnant and children from birth through age 3 in Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, Midland, and Osceola Counties. Apply online at https://www.mmcaa.org/ehs.html or call or text 1-877-386-4406.

Head Start Preschool serves children aged 3–5 in Clare and Gladwin Counties. Apply online at https://www.mmcaa.org/preschool.html or call 989-386-8075.

]]><![CDATA[Michael’s Road to Success]]>Fri, 19 Sep 2025 04:00:00 GMThttps://www.mmcaa.org/stories/michaels-road-to-success

Meet Michael, a determined participant in our Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Program, who is taking exciting steps forward! After starting a new job, Michael found himself facing a new challenge: his tires were badly worn and making his commute unsafe.

With support through the FSS Program, Michael was able to replace his tires, making it safer and easier to get to work every day. He shared how much it helped, especially with other necessary costs like registration and insurance. He’s incredibly grateful for the opportunity to be in the program and excited about what’s next.

We’re so impressed with Michael's journey and can't wait to see where he goes next!

The FSS Program supports individuals with Housing Choice Vouchers as they work toward greater financial stability and long-term goals. If you have a Housing Choice Voucher and are interested in FSS, contact the housing agency that manages your voucher to find out how to get started.

Discover more about all the ways we can help:
https://www.mmcaa.org/howwehelp.html

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