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Stay informed with the latest updates from Mid Michigan Community Action. From new programs to agency announcements, this is where we share our most recent news.
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By Amyee Carson, Director of Whole Family Services, and Stephanie VanderElzen, Director of Head Start
Mid Michigan Community Action Back-to-school season often brings to mind backpacks, classrooms, new teachers, and children preparing for another year of learning. For families with young children, however, preparing for school begins long before kindergarten. Head Start has understood that for decades. At Mid Michigan Community Action, Head Start includes both Head Start Preschool and Early Head Start. Head Start Preschool provides early education for children ages 3-5 in Clare and Gladwin Counties, while Early Head Start begins even earlier, supporting families during pregnancy and through a child’s first three years in Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, Midland, and Osceola Counties. Head Start is about more than a child’s time in a classroom. Children learn and grow within families. What happens at home, the resources available to a family, a caregiver’s goals, a child’s development, and the relationships surrounding a child all play a role in helping that child thrive. That is why Head Start works with the whole family. For children, that can mean learning through play, building relationships, developing communication and social skills, and preparing for the transition to kindergarten. For parents and caregivers, it can mean having someone to turn to with questions about their child’s development, setting goals for their family, connecting with resources, becoming involved in their child’s education, and receiving support as their child’s first and most important teacher. Sometimes the support a family needs has little to do with what is happening in a classroom. A family may be continuing their education, working toward greater financial stability, looking for community resources, or navigating a change at home. Having a trusted team beside them can make a difference. This whole-family approach recognizes something simple but important: helping young children succeed means supporting the families raising them. And while the beginning of a new school year is a natural time to think about preschool, it is not the only time families can reach out. Head Start Preschool continues enrolling throughout the school year as space is available. Children can also become eligible when they turn 3 or 4 during the year. A child who isn't old enough for Head Start Preschool when school begins may become eligible later. School readiness does not suddenly begin when a child starts preschool, either. The foundations are being built from the very beginning, in a baby’s first relationships, a toddler’s exploration of the world, a preschooler’s growing independence, and the support surrounding their family throughout those years. That is the larger promise of Head Start. It is early education. It is family support. It is preparation for kindergarten. And through Early Head Start, that work can begin before a child is even born. Families interested in Early Head Start can learn more online here or call or text 1-877-386-4406. Families interested in Head Start Preschool can learn more online here or call 989-386-8075. If your child isn't eligible yet, you can still contact our team to find out when they may become eligible. Amyee Carson is the Director of Whole Family Services at Mid Michigan Community Action. Stephanie VanderElzen is the Director of Head Start at Mid Michigan Community Action. Mid Michigan Community Action provides Head Start Preschool in Clare and Gladwin Counties and Early Head Start in Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, Midland, and Osceola Counties.
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As cooler weather approaches, Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) is encouraging residents to check whether they qualify for the Michigan Home Heating Credit before the September 30 deadline.
The Home Heating Credit helps qualifying households with the cost of heating their homes. While many people claim the credit when they file their taxes, others may miss it or may not think they can file their taxes at all. If you're unsure whether you claimed the credit or whether you qualify, Mid Michigan CAA's IRS-trained and certified volunteers can review your situation and help you understand your options at no cost. "Many people assume that once they file their taxes, they're done," said Cherri Swanstra, Director of Community Impact at Mid Michigan CAA. "But some households may still be eligible for the Home Heating Credit. Eligible households could receive credit towards their home heating costs during the colder months." Mid Michigan CAA continues to offer free tax preparation services through September. Volunteers can help residents apply for the Home Heating Credit and assist individuals who have not yet filed their federal and state income tax returns. The program has a long history of helping local residents access credits and refunds they've earned. This year, Mid Michigan CAA volunteers have prepared over 1,000 returns, helping return more than $1 million in refunds to households across the service area. "Every credit and refund matters," Swanstra said. "Whether it's helping with heating costs, paying bills, or building savings, these dollars make a difference for families and individuals throughout our communities." Residents who think they may qualify are encouraged to contact Mid Michigan CAA before September 15th to schedule an appointment. To schedule an appointment, call or text the office nearest you:
More information about tax preparation services is available here. Mid Michigan Community Action guides local residents on the path to self-sufficiency through empowerment, education and community enrichment. Housing instability does not always look the way people expect, and it can affect Veterans and their families in our own communities.
Some Veterans may be staying with friends, living in motels, or facing eviction without others knowing. These situations are often temporary, but without the right support they can quickly become long-term housing crises. Through the Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) program, Mid Michigan Community Action works alongside EightCAP, Inc. to help Veterans and their families move toward stable housing. SSVF is funded by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and provides community-based housing support for Veterans and their families. In fiscal year 2025, our program supported 239 Veterans across the region. Housing support may include case management, help finding housing, and short-term financial assistance designed to help people secure or maintain safe housing. SSVF is one part of a larger network of support available to Veterans. The VA and Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency (MVAA) offer additional resources and connections to services, while local organizations and community partners help Veterans access support close to home. Behind every number is a Veteran working toward stability for themselves and their families. Community awareness plays an important role in ensuring Veterans know where to turn for support. Housing challenges can happen in many ways, and they do not always follow one path. Knowing that resources exist and sharing that information with someone who may need it can help Veterans and their families take the next step toward stable housing. Veterans and their families in our region may be able to connect with housing support by calling or texting 1-877-213-5955 or emailing [email protected]. [Harrison, MI—] Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) and Clare-Gladwin Regional Education Service District are expanding preschool options for local families with a new Strong Beginnings classroom at Mid Michigan CAA’s Harrison Preschool.
The no-cost classroom will serve eligible 3-year-olds beginning with the 2026–2027 school year. While Mid Michigan CAA already welcomes 3-year-olds through its preschool program, the new classroom will be designed just for children at this important stage of growth. “Three-year-olds are curious, busy, and ready to explore the world around them,” said Stephanie VanderElzen, Head Start Director at Mid Michigan CAA. “Having a classroom created especially for them gives our teachers more ways to meet children where they are, help them feel comfortable at school, and build skills through play. We are excited to welcome more Harrison families and give children another year to learn, grow, and make friends before kindergarten.” Strong Beginnings is a state-funded preschool program led by the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential. It gives eligible 3-year-olds an added year of play-based learning before they move into a preschool classroom for 4-year-olds and later begin kindergarten. Children will learn through stories, art, music, movement, hands-on projects, and time with classmates. The program helps children practice communication, early reading skills, problem-solving, managing feelings, and taking part in classroom routines. The new Harrison classroom will offer a full school day four days each week and will have space for 15 children. Strong Beginnings funding will work together with Head Start funding to support the classroom. Strong Beginnings also supports caregivers. Families can work with staff, take part in their child’s learning, set goals, and connect with other helpful resources in the community. Across Michigan, Strong Beginnings is growing from 34 classrooms serving 476 children to about 50 classrooms serving 750 children during the 2026–2027 school year. State evaluation results show that 97% of participating families said their child gained new skills through the program, and 96% said their child loves attending. For families, another year of no-cost preschool can also provide time to work, attend school, complete job training, or focus on other household goals while their child learns in a safe and caring setting. The Harrison classroom is part of the Clare and Gladwin Counties Quality Preschool Partnership, which brings local preschool programs together to help families find the option that best meets their needs. Families interested in Strong Beginnings or other no-cost preschool options can apply at www.claregladwinpreschool.org or call 989-386-8075. Mid Michigan Community Action guides local residents on the path to self-sufficiency through empowerment, education and community enrichment. Mid Michigan Community Action is asking for feedback from the public on its 2027 Community Action Plan. This plan explains how the agency will use federal Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) funds to help low-income people across Bay, Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, Midland, Muskegon, Oceana, and Osceola Counties. The public comment period is open from August 15 to September 15, 2026. You can read the plan online at www.mmcaa.org, in person at any Community Action Center during business hours, or by emailing [email protected] or texting 989-386-3805 to request a copy. Please mail your written comments by September 15, 2026, to: Eva Rohlman, Outreach & Opportunities Director 1574 E Washington Rd PO Box 768 Farwell, MI 48622 Or email [email protected]. Mid Michigan Community Action guides local residents on the path to self-sufficiency through empowerment, education, and community enrichment. 
 WHEREAS, Mid Michigan Community Action Agency has proudly served the residents of Bay County and communities for 60 years, helping individuals and families build stability through programs and services that strengthen communities; and
WHEREAS, established in 1966 as part of the nationwide Community Action network, Mid Michigan Community Action Agency has worked alongside local residents, partners, and organizations to address community needs through housing support, early childhood education, food and nutrition programs, energy assistance, financial empowerment, and other essential services; and WHEREAS, Community Action Agencies were founded on the belief that local communities are best equipped to identify local needs and develop local solutions, and Mid Michigan Community Action Agency has embodied that mission for 60 years by bringing together residents, partners, and resources to create lasting community impact; and WHEREAS, the agency's work reflects the belief that when individuals and families have access to opportunities and resources, entire communities grow stronger, healthier, and more resilient; and WHEREAS, Mid Michigan Community Action Agency's impact over the past six decades has been made possible through the dedication of its staff, volunteers, Board of Directors, community partners, and supporters, whose shared commitment has improved the lives of countless residents throughout Bay County and the surrounding region; and WHEREAS, the City of Bay City recognizes Mid Michigan Community Action Agency's 60 years of service and its ongoing commitment to helping neighbors achieve stability while strengthening the communities we all call home; NOW, THEREFORE, I, Christopher Girard, Mayor of the City of Bay City, on behalf of the Bay City Commission and the citizens of Bay City, do hereby proclaim August 11, 2026, as "Mid Michigan Community Action Agency 60th Anniversary Day" in the City of Bay City, and encourage all residents to join in recognizing the agency's six decades of service, celebrating its many contributions to our community, and wishing it continued success in the years ahead. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Seal of the City of Bay City to be affixed this ___ day of __________, 2026. Christopher Girard Mayor, City of Bay City Mid Michigan Community Action Agency Assisting with Furnace and Water Heater Replacements
Months after spring flooding impacted communities across the region, many households are still working to recover. Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) wants residents to know that help may be available. Eligible households affected by the 2026 spring flood may qualify for assistance with the replacement of damaged furnaces and water heaters. Assistance is available for residents of Clare, Lake, Mecosta, Muskegon, Newaygo, Oceana, Osceola, and Saginaw Counties. Recovering from a flood can be overwhelming. While cleanup may be complete, damaged heating systems and water heaters can continue to create challenges long after the water recedes. Mid Michigan CAA is encouraging residents who experienced flood damage to reach out and learn whether assistance may be available. "When a disaster impacts a community, recovery doesn't happen overnight," said Cherri Swanstra, Director of Community Impact at Mid Michigan CAA. "Families are often left dealing with repairs and unexpected expenses long after the immediate emergency has passed. We're grateful to be able to help some households replace essential equipment and continue moving forward." Mid Michigan CAA has a long history of helping residents navigate difficult situations, from severe weather events to housing and energy challenges. Programs like this help ensure that households have access to safe, reliable heating and hot water as they rebuild and recover. Residents who experienced flood-related damage to their furnace or water heater are encouraged to contact Mid Michigan CAA as soon as possible to discuss their situation and learn whether they may qualify for assistance. To learn more, call toll-free 1-877-213-5948, email [email protected], or visit https://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 Big Rapids Pioneer: Mid Michigan agency offers flood recovery help for furnaces, water heaters, Published June 30, 2026 WHITEHALL, Mich. — The City of Whitehall invites residents to attend a special presentation by Heather Stephenson of Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) during the Whitehall City Council Work Session on Tuesday, June 9, at 5:00 p.m. at Whitehall City Hall.
The presentation was requested by Council Member Tanya Cabala to help ensure that Whitehall area residents are aware of the wide range of programs and resources available through Mid Michigan CAA. “Many people may not realize the number of programs available that can help individuals, families, seniors, and homeowners facing financial, housing, or other challenges,” said Council Member Tanya Cabala. “I wanted to make sure our community has an opportunity to learn directly about these valuable resources and ask questions.” Mid Michigan CAA provides a broad range of services and programs, including:
Eligibility requirements vary depending on the program and available funding. “We appreciate the City of Whitehall for creating this opportunity to connect directly with residents,” said Eva Rohlman, Outreach and Opportunities Director at Mid Michigan CAA. “Strong communities are built when people know where to turn for support and resources. We look forward to sharing information, answering questions, and helping Whitehall area residents learn about programs that may benefit their households.” The City encourages residents, nonprofit organizations, service providers, and community members to attend and learn more about the programs that may be available to area households. The work session is open to the public. Date: Tuesday, June 9, 2026 Time: 5:00 p.m. Location: Whitehall City Hall, 405 E. Colby Street, Whitehall In the News White Lake Beacon: City of Whitehall Hosts Public Presentation on Community Support Programs, Published June 4, 2026  Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) invites families to join the 22nd Annual Fun Day in the Park on June 12, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Shamrock Park in Clare. This family-friendly event will feature hands-on activities focused on STEAM—science, technology, engineering, art, and math—through fun, age-appropriate play for young children.
Fun Day in the Park is designed for families who are pregnant and families with young children, but families with older children are welcome, too. Children will have the chance to build, explore, create, and enjoy messy play while learning through simple activities that make STEAM exciting and approachable for little learners. “Fun Day in the Park is one of our favorite ways to bring families together,” said Stephanie VanderElzen, Head Start Director at Mid Michigan CAA. “STEAM activities help young children practice big skills like curiosity, creativity, and problem solving in kid-sized ways while families connect with our staff, meet other local families, and enjoy a fun day in the community.” In addition to the activities, families can enjoy food, meet Mid Michigan CAA staff, and connect with other families in the community while learning more about early childhood programs and resources available in the area. “We love creating opportunities where families can relax, have fun, and feel supported,” said Amyee Carson, Whole Family Services Director. “Events like Fun Day in the Park help families build connections while learning about services like Early Head Start, Head Start Preschool, and other community resources that can support them through pregnancy and early childhood.” For questions or more information, contact Katelynn McKellar at [email protected] or 989-386-0892. This event is supported by United Way of Clare and Gladwin Counties and by funding from the MiLEAP 35i MiFamily Engagement Centers Grant. To learn more about Mid Michigan CAA’s early childhood programs:
Mid Michigan Community Action guides local residents on the path to self-sufficiency through empowerment, education and community enrichment. In the News State of Michigan: Next Round of Literacy Trainings and Family Events Expands Across Michigan Amid Growing Demand for Early Learning Support: Events Planned in Marquette, Big Rapids, Jenison, Scottville, Clare, Metro Detroit and Northeast Michigan, Published April 7, 2026 April 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:
“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.
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. In The News Gladwin County Record & Beaverton Clarion: Recognizing Child Abuse Prevention Month in April, Published April 15, 2026 |
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This website is supported by Grant Number 05CH012316 and 05CH011635 from the Office of Head Start within the Administration for Children and Families, a division of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Neither the Administration for Children and Families nor any of its components operate, control, are responsible for, or necessarily endorse this website (including, without limitation, its content, technical infrastructure, and policies, and any services or tools provided). The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed are those of Mid Michigan Community Action Agency and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Administration for Children and Families and the Office of Head Start.
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