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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.
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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:

• Utility assistance and help navigating available resources for past-due utility bills
• Water and sewer assistance, including help with shutoffs and certain well and septic repairs and maintenance
• Weatherization and home energy efficiency programs that can help reduce energy costs
• Housing counseling and foreclosure prevention assistance
• Property tax foreclosure counseling and support
• First-time homebuyer education, workshops, and one-on-one counseling
• Food distribution programs for seniors
• Home accessibility and safety modifications for seniors through the “Home Ramp Up” program, including ramps, grab bars, railings, and other improvements
• Additional community support and referral services
  

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.
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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