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Mid Michigan Community Action (Mid Michigan CAA) is recognizing Homeless Awareness Month this November because everyone deserves a safe and stable place to call home. Mid Michigan CAA has services available for individuals, families, youth, and veterans across Arenac, Bay, Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, and Osceola Counties who are homeless. In addition, they provide support to veterans who are unhoused or at risk of homelessness in Lake, Newaygo, Midland, and Saginaw Counties.

Mid Michigan CAA helps unhoused people find solutions through emergency shelters, rapid rehousing, and permanent supportive housing. If you are experiencing housing insecurity, contact Mid Michigan CAA for support. Assistance is just a call or text away at 877-213-5955. You can also email [email protected] for resources.

“Our goal is to ensure that no one in our community feels alone or without options,” said Eva Rohlman, Outreach and Opportunities Director at Mid Michigan CAA. “Homeless Awareness Month reminds us to support safe, affordable housing for all of our neighbors.”

This November, Mid Michigan CAA encourages the community to learn more about homelessness and how they can get involved. Share your time and talents by volunteering. Donate to fund essential programs and services. Advocate for policies that address the root causes, like the rising cost of housing. Whether it’s through donations, volunteering, or advocacy, everyone has a role to play in ending homelessness.

For more information on Mid Michigan CAA’s programs and how to get involved, visit www.mmcaa.org or follow us on social media for updates throughout Homeless Awareness Month. Together, we can create a community where everyone has a place to call home.
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Mid Michigan Community Action guides local residents on the path to self-sufficiency through empowerment, education, and community enrichment.

As temperatures begin to drop, Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) recognizes October as National Weatherization Month, a time to raise awareness of the many benefits of Weatherizing homes.

The Weatherization Assistance Program helps households struggling with high energy costs improve energy efficiency, reduce utility costs, and ensure comfort throughout the year—benefits that are especially important as winter approaches in Michigan, but Weatherization isn’t just for cold weather! This program offers year-round advantages by sealing air leaks, adding insulation, and making homes more energy-efficient for both heating and cooling systems.

Benefits of Weatherization:

• Lower Utility Bills: Families can save an average of $283 annually in energy costs by improving home efficiency.
• Enhanced Comfort: A Weatherized home stays warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer, reducing the strain on heating and cooling systems.
• Health and Safety: Weatherization can also improve air quality by reducing indoor pollutants, moisture, and allergens, making homes healthier and safer for families.
• Environmental Impact: Weatherization reduces energy consumption, helping Michigan residents lower their carbon footprint and contribute to a healthier planet.

"Weatherization is an essential tool for families who want to reduce energy bills and improve their living conditions. With winter on the way, now is the perfect time to begin the process of making homes more energy-efficient and comfortable," said Johnny Mills, Weatherization Director at Mid Michigan CAA. "We are proud to help families save money and improve comfort."

Mid Michigan CAA is proud to offer Weatherization in Bay, Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, Midland, Muskegon, Oceana, and Osceola Counties. Homeowners, renters, homes on land contract, and landlords with multi-unit housing are eligible.

Call or text your local office to learn more about the program and get started:

• Bay City: 989-894-9060
• Big Rapids: 231-660-0271
• Farwell: 989-386-3805
• Gladwin: 989-426-2801
• Hart: 231-923-3066
• Midland: 989-832-7377
• Muskegon: 231-557-7622
• Reed City: 231-791-7078
• Call Toll-Free: 1-877-213-5948
• Email us at [email protected]

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

This October Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) is celebrating Head Start Awareness Month, recognizing the vital role that both Early Head Start and Preschool Head Start programs play in the development of young children and families. These programs work together to provide critical resources and comprehensive support for children from birth through age 5 and pregnant individuals, ensuring they receive the education, health, and family services needed for a strong start in life.

Early Head Start serves pregnant individuals and children from birth through age 3 in Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, Midland, and Osceola Counties, focusing on nurturing infant and toddler development during these critical early years. The program helps parents build strong bonds with their children, supports health and wellness, and offers resources to create a foundation for lifelong learning.

“Early Head Start supports families during some of the most important developmental years of a child’s life,” said Amyee Carson, Early Head Start & WIC Director at Mid Michigan CAA. “We partner with parents to support pregnancies and provide the guidance and resources needed to help infants and toddlers grow, learn, and build strong relationships. It’s truly about giving families the tools to support their child’s healthy development right from the start.”

Preschool serves children from ages 3 through 5 in Clare and Gladwin Counties, providing high-quality early education that promotes school readiness through play, hands-on learning, and the development of essential social, emotional, and cognitive skills.

“Our Preschool program is all about creating a strong foundation for children as they prepare for school,” said Stephanie VanderElzen, Head Start Director at Mid Michigan CAA. “We focus on nurturing each child’s curiosity, creativity, and social skills through engaging, play-based learning. Head Start is more than just education—it’s about empowering children and their families to thrive.”

To learn more or apply for Early Head Start, visit www.mmcaa.org/earlyheadstart or call or text 1-877-386-4406.

To learn more or apply for Preschool, visit www.mmcaa.org/preschoolheadstart or call 989-386-8075.
 
Mid Michigan CAA is dedicated to providing comprehensive early childhood education and family services through programs like Head Start. We are committed to ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive in a supportive environment and reach their fullest potential.
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Mid Michigan Community Action Agency guides local residents on the path to self-sufficiency through empowerment, education and community enrichment.

​Mid Michigan Community Action has drafted the Fiscal Year 2025 Community Action Plan for review by officials and residents within our service area. The plan serves as a roadmap demonstrating how Mid Michigan Community Action plans to deliver Community Service Block Grant services in Bay, Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, Midland, Muskegon, Oceana, and Osceola Counties.
 
The Community Action Plan is available for public comments from August 15, 2024 to September 15, 2024. During this period, a copy of the plan can be accessed online at www.mmcaa.org or in person at any Mid Michigan Community Action Center during business hours. A copy of the plan can also be requested by emailing [email protected] or texting 989-386-3805. Comments must be submitted in writing to Eva Rohlman, Outreach & Opportunities Director by mail to PO Box 768, Farwell, MI 48622 or via email to [email protected] on or before September 15, 2024 to be considered.
 
The Community Action Plan identifies and assesses poverty-related needs and resources in the community and establishes a detailed plan, goals, and priorities for delivering those services to individuals and families affected by poverty.
 
​Mid Michigan Community Action guides local residents on the path to self-sufficiency through empowerment, education, and community enrichment.

​Mid Michigan Community Action is excited to announce the extension of our tax preparation services and Home Heating Credit filing through September 13th.
 
Our dedicated team of IRS-trained and certified tax preparation volunteers can assist with filing Federal and State Income Tax Returns, ensuring that all applicable credits, including the Home Heating Credit and Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), are claimed.  Previous tax years may also be prepared and E-filed for free.
 
Individuals interested in taking advantage of these extended services should call or text 989-418-0992 to schedule an appointment or to obtain more information. Our team is committed to providing professional and reliable assistance to ensure that taxpayers receive the benefits they are entitled to.
 
"At Mid Michigan Community Action, we understand that life can be unpredictable, and sometimes meeting the tax deadline can be challenging," said Cherri Swanstra, Community Empowerment Director. "We are here to support our community by extending our tax preparation services through September 13th, 2024, making it easier for individuals and families to fulfill their tax obligations and receive the credits they deserve."
 
Our tax preparation volunteers have undergone rigorous training and certification by the IRS, ensuring that they are well-equipped to handle a variety of tax situations. This initiative is part of our ongoing commitment to providing essential services and support to our community, helping to alleviate financial stress and promote economic stability.
 
For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call or text Rebeca at 989-418-0992. Don't miss out on the opportunity to have your taxes and Home Heating Credits prepared by our skilled volunteers.
 
Mid Michigan Community Action guides local residents on the path to self-sufficiency through empowerment, education and community enrichment.

2024 marks the 60th year since the Community Action network was established to help American families and communities overcome obstacles to poverty. Over 1,000 agencies across the country are working every day to create opportunities and transform the lives of their neighbors, making communities stronger and helping families across the US thrive.

“Each May, during Community Action Month, we reflect on the impact Mid Michigan Community Action and our network has had on families,” said Jill Sutton, Executive Director of Mid Michigan Community Action. “Last year alone, we served 14,532 people from Muskegon to Bay City, and the network served over 15 million across the country with immediately needed services such as housing and food, and long-term solutions like weatherization and early childhood education.” 

Community Action Agencies serve America with life-changing services to help families achieve financial stability. All agencies are locally controlled and represented by the private, public, and low-income sectors of the community. “We are proud of our communities’ participation in the development and oversight of our programs,” said Sutton. “Their engagement helps us to be more effective in our approach by determining what our communities need.” 

To honor the commitment to community-led solutions, Mid Michigan Community Action is launching its triennial Community Needs Assessment. The assessment analyses Census data, labor statistics, and most importantly, community survey and focus group findings. To complete the Community Needs Assessment survey, visit www.mmcaa.org/cna. Details on the virtual and in-person focus groups are available through the survey, on the website, and across social media @MidMichiganCommunityAction. 
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Mid Michigan Community Action is a member of the National Community Action Partnership and the Community Action network, which was born out of the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964. Mid Michigan Community Action guides local residents on the path to self-sufficiency through empowerment, education and community enrichment.

Clare County has been awarded $17,437, Gladwin County has been awarded $14,064, Mecosta County has been awarded $23,389, and Osceola County has been awarded $13,160 from the Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency under the Emergency Food and Shelter National Board Program to supplement local emergency food and shelter programs.
 
A Local Board is charged to distribute funds appropriated by Congress to help expand the capacity of food and shelter programs in high-need areas around the country. The Local Board will determine how the funds awarded to Clare County will be distributed to local service agencies.
 
Under the terms of the grant from the National Board, local agencies chosen to receive funds must: 1) be a private non-profit or unit of government, 2) be eligible to receive Federal funds, 3) have an accounting system, 4) practice nondiscrimination, 5) have demonstrated the capability to deliver emergency food or shelter programs, and 6) if they are a non-profit organization, have a voluntary board. Qualifying agencies are urged to apply.

Public or non-profit agencies interested in applying for Emergency Food and Shelter Program funds must contact their local board chair for an application.
 
Clare County: Cherri Swanstra, Clare County EFSP Board Chair, [email protected]
The deadline for applications to be received is March 1, 2024. The Local Board Meeting will be held virtually on March 5, 2024, at 2:00 PM.

Gladwin County: Cherri Swanstra, Gladwin County EFSP Board Chair, [email protected]
The deadline for applications to be received is March 1, 2024. The Local Board Meeting will be held virtually on March 5, 2024, at 1:00 PM.

Mecosta County: Diane Long, Mecosta County EFSP Board Co-Chair, [email protected]
The deadline for applications to be received is March 1, 2024. The Local Board Meeting will be held virtually on March 7, 2024, at 1:00 PM.

Osceola County: Malinda Coss, Osceola County EFSP Board Co-Chair, [email protected]
​The deadline for applications to be received is March 1, 2024. The Local Board Meeting will be held virtually on March 7, 2024, at 2:00 PM.

Attendance for applicants is required.
 

Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) is now enrolling for the 2023-2024 school year. Children who will be 3 or 4 on September 1st, 2023 are eligible.

Preschool provides learning opportunities, social emotional activities, and structured playtime for children ages 3 through 5 and support for their families in Clare and Gladwin Counties. Children enrolled in preschool transition to kindergarten ready and eager to learn.

“We make partnering with families the heart of our approach to early learning and child development,” said Stephanie VanderElzen, Head Start Director at Mid Michigan CAA.

To complete an application, call 989-386-8075, visit www.claregladwinpreschool.org, or attend one of our upcoming open houses:

• April 25th from 4-6 PM at Mid Michigan Community Action, 1302 Chatterton St, Gladwin
• April 26th from 4-6 PM at Gladwin Elementary School, Door 7, 600 W First St, Gladwin
• May 4th from 4-6 PM at Beaverton Activity Center, 106 Tonkin St, Beaverton
• May 9th from 5-7 PM at Mid Michigan Community Action, 1574 E Washington Rd, Farwell
• May 9th from 5-7 PM at Hillside Elementary, 201 N 4th St, Harrison
• May 10th from 5-7 PM at Clare Castle Preschool, 502 Beech St, Clare
• May 22nd from 4-6 PM at Farwell Elementary School, 268 Ohio St, Farwell

Please bring your child’s birth certificate, health insurance card, and immunization record; and your driver’s license or ID and income for the last 12 months (SSI, check stubs, child support, unemployment, 1040, or W2).

Clare and Gladwin Counties Quality Preschool Partnership is a collaboration of five local agencies and schools providing Head Start and Great Start Readiness Program services throughout Clare and Gladwin Counties. The Partnership is a workgroup of the Great Start Collaborative of Clare and Gladwin Counties.

Learn more about all Mid Michigan CAA’s early childhood programs at www.mmcaa.org/ecs. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn at @midmichigancommunityaction for news and updates.
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Mid Michigan Community Action guides local residents on the path to self-sufficiency through empowerment, education and community enrichment.

​Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) is now the Weatherization provider in Muskegon and Oceana Counties. Weatherization implements cost-effective energy solutions to reduce energy costs, increase safety in the home, and improve the health of the residents.   

During Weatherization, trained professionals known as Energy Auditors use computerized energy audit software and advanced diagnostic equipment such as blower doors and infrared cameras to create a comprehensive energy analysis of the home. This analysis helps determine the most cost-effective measures to install in each home. The Energy Auditor creates a customized work order. Then trained contractors and crew members install the energy-efficiency and health and safety measures, such as insulation, blower-door-guided air sealing of key leakage junctures, and installations such as lighting and water-saving measures.  

Health and safety issues such as elevated levels of carbon monoxide, moisture problems, mold, ventilation needs, and heating systems safety and efficiency are also addressed. There is growing evidence the program provides benefits beyond energy savings. Improved indoor air quality and appropriate ventilation strategies lead to healthier living conditions in Weatherized homes, which often lead to improved health outcomes such as reduced asthma triggers and fewer doctor visits.  

“Especially during extreme high and low temperatures, affordable energy is critical,” said Justin Walls, Mid Michigan CAA Housing Director. “In addition to improving energy costs, Weatherization improves the comfort and safety of homes. We are thrilled to begin offering this valuable service in Muskegon and Oceana Counties.”

Weatherization is available to low-income homeowners, renters, homes on land contracts, and landlords with multi-unit housing.

Residents of Bay, Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, Midland, Muskegon, Oceana, and Osceola Counties interested in Weatherization should contact the Mid Michigan CAA office nearest them: Bay City at 989-894-9060, Big Rapids at 231-660-0271, Farwell at 989-386-3805, Gladwin at 989-426-2801, Hart at 231-923-3066, Midland at 989-832-7377, Muskegon at 231-557-7622 or Reed City at 231-791-7078 or email us at [email protected].
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Mid Michigan Community Action guides local residents on the path to self-sufficiency through empowerment, education and community enrichment.

Mid Michigan Community Action Will be Providing Volunteer Income Tax Assistance in 2023

Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) will be providing free income tax preparation services through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program.

VITA is an IRS program managed by partners all over the country, including Community Action Agencies. IRS-trained and certified volunteers work with community members to prepare their taxes safely, confidentially, and at no cost. Virtual and in-person return options are available.

“VITA provides high-quality tax preparation services with no costs or hidden fees meaning our clients receive their entire return,” said Cherri Swanstra, Mid Michigan CAA Outreach Assistant Director. “Last year we filed over 919 returns, bringing $862,744 back for our clients and into our communities.”

The VITA program serves Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, and Osceola Counties residents. Those interested in having their taxes prepared at no cost to them should contact call nearest office: Big Rapids: 231-660-0271, Farwell: 989-386-3805, Gladwin: 989-426-2801, or Reed City: 231-791-7078. Mid Michigan CAA is scheduling appointments now.

To learn more about the tax preparation program, visit www.mmcaa.org/taxprep.
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Mid Michigan Community Action guides local residents on the path to self-sufficiency through empowerment, education and community enrichment.