<![CDATA[Mid Michigan Community Action - Newsroom]]>Thu, 09 Apr 2026 14:12:58 -0400Weebly<![CDATA[Supporting Strong Families and Safe Childhoods]]>Thu, 09 Apr 2026 13:30:30 GMThttps://www.mmcaa.org/newsroom/supporting-strong-families-and-safe-childhoodsApril is Child Abuse Prevention Month, a time to come together as a community and recognize the importance of strong families, supportive environments, and safe childhoods.

At Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA), this work happens every day by helping families access the tools, resources, and support they need to care for their children and build stable, healthy homes.

“When families feel supported, children have a better chance to grow, learn, and thrive,” said Stephanie VanderElzen, Head Start Director. “Programs like Head Start Preschool and Early Head Start create safe, nurturing spaces where children can develop and caregivers can feel confident and connected.”

Mid Michigan CAA offers several programs that support families with young children, including Head Start Preschool, Early Head Start, and WIC (Women, Infants, and Children). These programs provide early learning opportunities, nutrition support, and guidance for caregivers during some of the most important years of a child’s life.

Through these services, families can access:
  • Safe, supportive early learning environments
  • Healthy food and nutrition guidance
  • Developmental screenings and growth tracking
  • Support for caregivers, including education and connections to community resources

“Support makes a difference,” said Amyee Carson, Whole Family Services Director. “When caregivers have someone to turn to, it can ease stress and help families feel more confident in meeting their children’s needs. That kind of support strengthens the whole community.”

Child Abuse Prevention Month is a reminder that creating safe and healthy environments for children is something everyone can be part of. Whether it’s offering encouragement, sharing resources, or helping families connect to support, small actions can make a big impact.

Get Connected
 
Mid Michigan Community Action offers programs for families with young children across several counties.
  • Early Head Start supports 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 or call or text 1-877-386-4406.
  • Head Start Preschool is available for children ages 3 and 4 in Clare and Gladwin Counties. Apply at https://www.mmcaa.org/preschool or call 989-386-8075.
  • WIC supports those who are pregnant and families with children from birth through age 5 through the Midland office. Call 989-832-7310, text 989-220-1076, or email wic@mmcaa.org to get started.

If you’re not sure where to begin, reach out. We’re here to help you find the support that’s right for your family.

Mid Michigan Community Action guides local residents on the path to self-sufficiency through empowerment, education and community enrichment.
]]><![CDATA[Nourishing Families, Growing Communities: Celebrating National Nutrition Month with WIC]]>Mon, 02 Mar 2026 15:00:00 GMThttps://www.mmcaa.org/newsroom/nourishing-families-growing-communities-celebrating-national-nutrition-month-with-wic[Midland, MI—] March is National Nutrition Month, and Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) is celebrating by recognizing the powerful role that nutrition plays in helping families and communities thrive.

Mid Michigan CAA provides WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) services through its Midland WIC office, supporting families with access to healthy foods, nutrition guidance, growth monitoring, and referrals to other helpful programs. WIC helps those who are pregnant and families with children from birth through age five get a strong start.

“WIC isn’t just about food, it’s about supporting the whole family,” said Amyee Carson, Whole Family Services Director at Mid Michigan CAA. “From pregnancy through early childhood, WIC provides the building blocks for a healthy future. We’re proud to be part of that journey with families in our community.”

WIC serves many types of caregivers, not just parents. Those who are pregnant, as well as moms, dads, step-parents, grandparents, foster parents, and guardians, may all qualify if they are caring for a child under five. Support includes healthy food benefits like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and milk; nutrition tips that fit a family’s schedule and budget; and resources for grocery shopping, feeding during pregnancy, and infant nutrition.

“Every family is different, and we take the time to get to know what matters most to the people we serve,” said Tammy Karner, WIC Manager at Mid Michigan CAA. “Whether it’s understanding nutrition labels, planning meals on a tight budget, or knowing what to expect as your baby grows, we’re here to help.”

WIC services are currently provided at Mid Michigan CAA’s Midland WIC office. While most families served live in Midland County, residents from nearby counties may also qualify if the Midland site is most accessible to them.

Get Started with WIC
If you're pregnant or caring for a child from birth through age 5, WIC may be able to help. The first step is reaching out:
Staff will help determine eligibility and set up an appointment at a time that works for your family.

National Nutrition Month is the perfect time to highlight programs like WIC that offer lasting support to local families. When children and caregivers have access to good nutrition and supportive resources, the whole community benefits.

For more information, visit: www.mmcaa.org/wic.

​Mid Michigan Community Action guides local residents on the path to self-sufficiency through empowerment, education and community enrichment.

In the News
Midland Daily News: Celebrating National Nutrition Month with WIC, Published February 23, 2026
Benzie County Record Patriot: Celebrating National Nutrition Month with WIC, Published February 23, 2026]]><![CDATA[Helping Older Adults Stay Safe at Home: Home Ramp Up Program Now Available]]>Tue, 10 Feb 2026 16:56:59 GMThttps://www.mmcaa.org/newsroom/helping-older-adults-stay-safe-at-home-home-ramp-up-program-now-available​Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) is offering a new opportunity for older adults to make their homes safer and easier to live in. The Home Ramp Up Program, officially known as the Older Adults Home Modification Program (OAHMP), provides no-cost home improvements to help individuals maintain independence and quality of life.

“Our homes should support us as we age,” said Cherri Swanstra, Community Impact Director at Mid Michigan CAA. “Through this program, we’re making everyday life safer and more accessible for older adults in our community, one ramp, one grab bar, one improvement at a time.”

About the Program
Home Ramp Up helps eligible homeowners aged 62 and older by providing modifications that reduce the risk of falls and improve accessibility. These updates are customized to each household and may include:
• Ramps
• Grab bars and handrails
• Toilet and faucet replacements
• Tub cuts and walk-in tubs
• Adaptive equipment and other safety enhancements

By making these changes, the program helps older adults live safely and comfortably in the homes they love.

Available in Eight Counties
The Home Ramp Up Program is available at no cost for eligible homeowners aged 62 and older in Bay, Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, Midland, Muskegon, Oceana, and Osceola Counties.

To learn more or apply, call or text your local Mid Michigan CAA office:
• Bay County: 989-894-9060
• Clare County: 989-386-3805
• Gladwin County: 989-426-2801
• Mecosta County: 231-660-0271
• Midland County: 989-832-7377
• Muskegon County: 231-557-7622
• Oceana County: 231-923-3066
• Osceola County: 231-791-7078
Or email contactus@mmcaa.org for more information.

Empowering Independence and Community
Mid Michigan Community Action has supported individuals and families for 60 years with programs focused on stability, self-sufficiency, and quality of life. Home Ramp Up is another way we’re helping our neighbors stay safe, independent, and connected to their community.

In the News
White Lake Beacon: Helping Older Adults Stay Safe at Home, Published February 14, 2026
Oceana's Herald-Journal: Helping Older Adults Stay Safe at Home, Published February 18, 2026
​Gladwin County Record & Beaverton Clarion: Home ramp up program available, Published February 18, 2026
Midland Daily News: Home Ramp Up program offers free home upgrades for older adults, Published February 26, 2026
The Benzie County Record Patriot: Home Ramp Up program offers free home upgrades for older adults, Published February 26, 2026
Big Rapids Pioneer: Home Ramp Up program offer free home upgrades for older adults, Published February 26, 2026]]><![CDATA[Mid Michigan Community Action Now Scheduling Free Tax Preparation Appointments]]>Wed, 21 Jan 2026 19:45:59 GMThttps://www.mmcaa.org/newsroom/mid-michigan-community-action-now-scheduling-free-tax-preparation-appointments[Farwell, MI—] Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) is now scheduling appointments for free income tax preparation services in Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, and Osceola Counties. In-person and drop-off options are available.

Mid Michigan CAA’s IRS-trained and certified volunteers will help filers complete and submit federal and state tax returns and any available credits safely and accurately.

“We know tax season can feel stressful, and we want individuals and families to know they don’t have to do it alone,” said Cherri Swanstra, Community Impact Director at Mid Michigan CAA. “Our trained volunteers are here to help our neighbors file their taxes with confidence and make sure they have the support they need throughout the process.”

What Mid Michigan CAA can help file:
Tax preparation assistance may be available for people who:
  • Worked a job and received a W-2
  • Earned income reported on common tax forms such as 1099s
  • Receive Social Security or other retirement income
  • Receive Railroad Retirement
  • Have military income
  • Have certain international filing situations (including Canada)

Mid Michigan Community Action is not able to prepare returns that include self-employment or business income, including farm income.

Individuals and families should bring all tax documents that apply to their situation, including photo identification and Social Security cards for all household members. Having all required forms ready helps ensure appointments go smoothly and returns can be filed accurately.

How to schedule an appointment
To schedule a tax preparation appointment, individuals can call or text the office nearest them:
  • Big Rapids: 231-660-0271
  • Gladwin: 989-426-2801
  • Farwell: 989-386-3805
  • Reed City: 231-791-7078

More information is available at: www.mmcaa.org/taxprep

​Mid Michigan Community Action Agency guides local residents on the path to self-sufficiency through empowerment, education and community enrichment.

In the News
Gladwin County Record and Beaverton Clarion: Mid Michigan Community Action now scheduling free tax preparation appointments, Published January 28, 2026
Midland Daily News: Free Tax prep Offered to Low- to Moderate-Income Filers, January 29, 2026
Big Rapids Pioneer: Free tax prep offered to low- to moderate-income filers, Published January 29, 2026
​Clare County Cleaver: Mid Michigan Community Action Now Scheduling Free Tax Preparation Appointments, Published February 2, 2026]]><![CDATA[​Consumers Energy Donates $5 Million to Help Michigan Families Manage Energy Costs]]>Mon, 12 Jan 2026 19:52:56 GMThttps://www.mmcaa.org/newsroom/consumers-energy-donates-5-million-to-help-michigan-families-manage-energy-costsA recent announcement from Consumers Energy shares that they are committing $5 million to help customers across Michigan with energy bills and other needs—funds that will be distributed through partnerships with local organizations, including Mid Michigan Community Action.

We’re honored to be included as a partner in this initiative and proud to work alongside Consumers Energy to connect neighbors with the resources they need.

To learn more about the announcement and all the partners involved, you can read the full release on the Consumers Energy website: Consumers Energy Stands with Customers on Energy Costs, Continues Its Commitment, Provides $5 Million to Lower Bills

In the News
Clare County Cleaver: Consumers Energy Stands with Customers on Energy Costs, Continues Its Commitment, Provides $5 Million to Lower Bills, Published January 12, 2026
WNEM5: Consumers Energy to invest $5M to help customers manage energy costs, Published January 12, 2026
WILX10: Consumers Energy to invest $5M to help customers manage energy costs, Published January 12, 2026
PR Newswire: Consumers Energy Stands with Customers on Energy Costs, Continues Its Commitment, Provides $5 Million to Lower Bills, Published January 12, 2026
Stock Titan: Consumers Energy Stands with Customers on Energy Costs, Continues Its Commitment, Provides $5 Million to Lower Bills, Published January 12, 2026
The Malaysian Reserve: Consumers Energy Stands with Customers on Energy Costs, Continues Its Commitment, Provides $5 Million to Lower Bills, Published January 12, 2026
Michigan Chronicle: Consumers Energy Invests $5 Million to Help Michigan Families Manage Rising Energy Costs, Published January 14, 2026
WHMI: Consumers Energy Provides $5 Million To Help Lower Bills For Customers, Published January 16, 2025

These articles highlight Consumers Energy’s announcement of a $5 million investment to help Michigan customers manage energy costs in 2026, including partnerships with local agencies like Mid Michigan Community Action to support direct assistance, community programs, and neighbor‑to‑neighbor resources.]]><![CDATA[Helping Our Neighbors Starts with Understanding]]>Thu, 08 Jan 2026 14:23:37 GMThttps://www.mmcaa.org/newsroom/helping-our-neighbors-starts-with-understandingMid Michigan Community Action to Participate in Annual Point-in-Time Count

On January 28, 2026, Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) will take part across the country in the annual Point-in-Time (PIT) Count, a nationwide effort to count people who are experiencing homelessness on a single night.
​
The PIT Count helps identify needs in local communities and connects those experiencing homelessness with housing support and other critical resources. Mid Michigan CAA will be participating in the count across Arenac, Bay, Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, and Osceola Counties.

The agency provides services for individuals, families, youth, and veterans experiencing housing insecurity in those counties, as well as for veterans and their families in Lake, Midland, Newaygo, and Saginaw Counties.

“The PIT Count is about more than numbers,” said Jenn Rodgers, Homeless Programs Manager at Mid Michigan CAA. “It gives us a chance to reach people who may not yet be connected to help. Being counted can be the first step toward stable housing.”

To help ensure everyone is counted, Mid Michigan CAA is asking for help from the community. If you know of a place where someone may be staying without stable housing, such as outside, in a vehicle, or in an abandoned building, please call or text 877‑213‑5955 or email homeless@mmcaa.org. Sharing locations helps outreach teams include people in the count and offer support.

The PIT Count is part of a national initiative led by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The information collected helps guide funding decisions, improve services, and strengthen housing solutions for people facing homelessness.

To learn more about local housing programs and the PIT Count, visit www.mmcaa.org/homeless-solutions.

About Mid Michigan Community Action Agency
Mid Michigan CAA has been serving our communities since 1966. Our programs address a wide range of needs, including housing support, early childhood education, food access, energy assistance, and more.

We serve a core region of eight counties: Bay, Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, Midland, Muskegon, Oceana, and Osceola. In addition, some of our programs, like homeless services, extend beyond these counties to meet specific community needs. This broader reach helps us connect more people with meaningful resources and support for long-term stability. To learn more about our programs, visit www.mmcaa.org.

Mid Michigan Community Action guides local residents on the path to self-sufficiency through empowerment, education, and community enrichment.

In the News
Clare County Cleaver: Helping Our Neighbors Starts with Understanding, Published 12, 2026
Gladwin County Record and Beaverton Clarion: ​Mid Michigan Community Action to participate in annual Point-in-Time Count, Published January 14, 2026

This article showcases our highlights our efforts for the Point-in-Time Count across region.]]><![CDATA[Honoring MaryJo Barnes for Her Impact on Veterans and Community]]>Mon, 05 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMThttps://www.mmcaa.org/newsroom/honoring-maryjo-barnes-for-her-impact-on-veterans-and-communityRecent articles in the Big Rapids Pioneer and Midland Daily News celebrate the incredible service of MaryJo Barnes, a longtime advocate for veterans and a dedicated staff member at Mid Michigan Community Action. MaryJo has spent years supporting veterans through our Veteran Housing Support program, helping individuals and families find stable housing, avoid homelessness, and connect with community and veteran resources.

The article also highlights MaryJo’s work beyond the agency. She volunteers with the annual Midland Project Community Connect resource fair, as well as being involved with the Midland Wellbeing Coalition and Great Lakes Bay Veterans Coalition. She also helps bring food boxes to veterans from the food pantry when needed. Her commitment goes far beyond her job title—she’s a tireless advocate, a connector, and a steady presence in the lives of many local veterans.

Through Mid Michigan Community Action, MaryJo supports veterans and their families across our service area. Learn more about how Mid Michigan Community Action supports veteran housing here.

In the News
This article honors MaryJo Barnes’ years of commitment to veterans, both through Mid Michigan Community Action and her independent volunteer efforts, highlighting the value of strong community partnerships and persistent compassion.
]]><![CDATA[Together, We Can Make the Season Brighter]]>Wed, 10 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMThttps://www.mmcaa.org/newsroom/together-we-can-make-the-season-brighterAs the year comes to a close, Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) is inviting community members to help build a stronger, more hopeful future through a year-end donation.

Each gift makes a real difference. Whether it helps a family keep the heat on, ensures a child has nutritious food, or supports someone working toward long-term stability, your support meets essential needs and helps people take their next steps.

“This time of year, many people are looking for a way to give back. Supporting Mid Michigan Community Action is a powerful way to make a difference right here in your own community,” said Mark Polega, Executive Director of Mid Michigan CAA. “Your gift helps your neighbors stay safe, warm, and supported during the holidays and beyond.”

Mid Michigan CAA provides a wide range of programs, including Weatherization, early childhood education, food and nutrition support, housing support, and energy resources. These services are made possible thanks to a combination of funding sources, including local donors.

Giving locally ensures your contribution stays in the community, directly supporting neighbors in need. Every dollar counts, and every act of kindness helps.

To give today, visit www.mmcaa.org/donate or mail a check to:
Mid Michigan Community Action
PO Box 768
Farwell, MI 48622
​
Thank you for being part of our mission to empower people, strengthen communities, and help families achieve stability.
]]><![CDATA[Mid Michigan Community Action Recognized in Wilcox Newspapers’ Bartering Bonanza Coverage]]>Wed, 03 Dec 2025 19:00:25 GMThttps://www.mmcaa.org/newsroom/mid-michigan-community-action-recognized-in-wilcox-newspapers-bartering-bonanza-coverageA recent article from Wilcox Newspapers reports that over $10,000 was raised through the annual “Bartering Bonanza” hosted by Clare Public Schools. Thanks to the generosity of students, staff, and the wider school community, these funds will directly support Mid Michigan Community Action’s Clare County Food Pantry.

​This community-powered effort is a great example of how local schools and nonprofits can work together to meet critical needs. Through partnerships like this, we’re able to reach more neighbors, provide essential support, and build stronger, more connected communities.
In the News
This article highlighted the success of the annual Bartering Bonanza at Clare Public Schools, where students donated essential hygiene and personal care items—generating over $10,500 in donations for the Clare County Food Pantry. The coverage emphasized community generosity and strengthened awareness of our food assistance services.
]]><![CDATA[Mid Michigan Community Action Named as Finalist in Holiday Giving Campaign by Isabella Bank]]>Mon, 01 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMThttps://www.mmcaa.org/newsroom/mid-michigan-community-action-named-as-finalist-in-holiday-giving-campaign-by-isabella-bankUpdate, January 5, 2026—We’re honored to share that Mid Michigan Community Action was awarded $1,000 through Isabella Bank’s Holiday with Heart campaign. We’re grateful to Isabella Bank and everyone who voted to support our work—your support helps us meet critical needs across Mid-Michigan this winter.

December 1, 2025—Recent articles from WNEM and Midland Daily News highlight Isabella Bank’s Holiday with Heart campaign, which will donate $24,000 to local nonprofits, and Mid Michigan Community Action is one of the finalists! The public can vote here to determine how the funds are distributed.

“This initiative reflects our deep commitment to the communities we serve,” said Neil McDonnell, President of Isabella Bank. “We believe in empowering local organizations that make a real difference for our neighbors. Holiday with Heart is about coming together to create a meaningful impact—and we’re excited to see how these funds help our communities grow and thrive.”

This recognition is a powerful reminder of the impact organizations like ours have across Mid-Michigan—from food boxes and utility assistance to housing support and early childhood education. Community support helps us reach more neighbors with critical resources, and campaigns like this are a great example of what’s possible when we work together.
In the News
These articles highlights a new campaign by Isabella Bank through which local nonprofits—including ours—will receive donations, with the specific amounts determined by community voting. The coverage underscores community support for nonprofit partners and reinforces our visibility and connection to local funders as we continue our services.
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