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A recent article reports that over 300 staff from Isabella Bank participated in their annual “Compassion into Action” volunteer day by helping 18 organizations with various projects, including packing food boxes with Mid Michigan Community Action. It's a great example of community partners coming together.

The article notes, “The efforts provide immediate relief for organizations, build long-term community resilience, and create a lasting positive impact.”

At Mid Michigan Community Action, our USDA Food Box program delivers nutritious food boxes to adults aged 60 and older across a wide network of counties: Bay, Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, Midland, Muskegon, Oceana, Osceola, Isabella, Gratiot, Montcalm, Ionia, Clinton, Eaton, and Ottawa. With the help of volunteers and partners like Isabella Bank in packing these food boxes, we can reach older adults and provide consistent support across a wide region.

If you’d like to get involved and help us continue packing and delivering food boxes throughout the region, please visit our Volunteering page to learn more.

In the News

• Catalyst Midland: Isabella Bank’s Compassion into Action – Dedicated to making a difference in the region,  Published October 23, 2025

This feature highlighted Isabella Bank’s volunteer support, amplifying the importance of community partnerships and recognizing contributions that strengthen local programs.

​Mid Michigan Community Action Agency Offers Weatherization Services to Help Residents Stay Safe and Independent

As heating costs rise and temperatures drop, Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) is reminding residents that help is available—and it’s free.

October is Weatherization Month, a time to highlight the federal Weatherization Assistance Program that makes homes safer, more efficient, and more affordable for eligible households.

Weatherization services are no-cost to participants and help individuals and families take control of their home energy use, reducing their monthly bills and protecting against unexpected breakdowns and hazards.

​“When a home is properly weatherized, it’s more than just comfortable, it’s secure,” said Johnny Mills, Weatherization Director at Mid Michigan CAA. “People want to be able to stay in their homes, manage their own expenses, and not worry about their furnace going out or high energy bills.”

Weatherization Can Include:

• Sealing air leaks and insulating attics, walls, and crawl spaces
• Replacing inefficient or unsafe heating equipment
• Installing ventilation for better air quality
• Upgrading appliances for long-term energy savings
• Addressing safety hazards like wiring, moisture, and carbon monoxide

Margret, a recent Weatherization participant, said, “You have helped me stay in my home. I was contemplating having to move to a retirement home. I am 72 and I have mobility issues and am vulnerable to disease—this is a game changer. No more leaks causing mold or bacteria, no more electric heaters just to stay warm. You folks have renewed my life.”

How to Apply
Mid Michigan Community Action offers Weatherization in Bay, Clare, Gladwin, Lake, Mason, Mecosta, Midland, Muskegon, Newaygo, Oceana, and Osceola Counties. Services may include insulation, air sealing, furnace upgrades, and more.

Call or text the office nearest you to learn more:

• 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
• Email us at [email protected]. Learn more at www.mmcaa.org/weatherization.

Explore What Weatherization Can Do: Join Us on Weatherization Day
Mid Michigan CAA will host four Harvest House events on October 30 from 3–6 PM to celebrate Weatherization Day. The public can watch demonstrations, talk with experts, and learn more about how the program works. Attendees will receive energy-saving tips, refreshments, and free Weatherization-themed goodie bags. Staff will also be available to help visitors understand what’s required to apply.

Locations:

• Mid Michigan Community Action, 1574 E. Washington Rd, Farwell
• Muskegon County Community Action Center, 878 Jefferson Street, Suite 2, Muskegon
• Mecosta County Community Action Center, 706 Maple Street, Big Rapids
• Bay County Community Action Center, 114 South Washington Avenue, Bay City

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: Published October 13, 2025

This story supported our visibility priority by showing the community how Weatherization reduces energy burdens and improves home safety.

Celebrating Head Start Awareness Month

This October, Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) celebrates Head Start Awareness Month, recognizing the life-changing impact Head Start Preschool and Early Head Start have on children, families, and the communities they call home.

Head Start Preschool and Early Head Start programs offer more than early learning. They provide family-centered support that helps children grow, encourages parents and caregivers, and connects families with the tools they need to thrive now and into the future.

“We see the difference every day,” said Stephanie VanderElzen, Head Start Director at Mid Michigan CAA. “When children have a safe place to learn and grow, when families have the support they need, when we build community together, we’re giving kids the best chance at success. That helps everyone.”

For 60 years, Head Start programs across the country have helped children and families reach their goals. Children who participate in Head Start are more likely to start kindergarten ready to learn and go on to succeed in school and life. Parents and caregivers in our programs are more likely to read with their children, continue their own education, and feel confident supporting their child’s development.

“Early Head Start supports families during some of the most important years of a child’s life,” said Amyee Carson, Whole Family Services Director. “From pregnancy through the toddler years, we walk alongside families, helping them build healthy relationships and strong foundations.”

Each year, we serve over 350 children and their families through Head Start and Early Head Start, and that impact reaches even further when you consider the positive effects for caregivers, schools, and communities.

Mid Michigan CAA is proud to be part of the Clare and Gladwin Counties Quality Preschool Partnership, offering both Head Start and Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP) classrooms. These partnerships allow us to serve more children and families in our community.

Build a Brighter Future
Mid Michigan Community Action offers no-cost Early Head Start and Head Start Preschool programs for eligible families.
 
Early Head Start is available for pregnant families and children from birth through age 3 in Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, Midland, and Osceola Counties. Families can apply online at www.mmcaa.org/ehs or call or text 1-877-386-4406 to get started.

Head Start Preschool is available for children who were 3 or 4 years old by September 1, 2025 in Clare and Gladwin Counties. Families can apply at www.mmcaa.org/preschool or call 989-386-8075 for more information.

Both programs support children's development through play-based learning, healthy meals, developmental screenings, and family-focused services. Caregivers also receive support to pursue their own goals and connect to community resources.

Celebrate with Us
Celebrate Head Start Awareness Month with fun, connection, and early learning! Come meet our staff, explore activities for children, and find out how Head Start and Early Head Start can support your family!

Beaverton Fall Fest is on October 11. We’ll be there in downtown Beaverton from 12–4 PM with crafts, games, and a chance to meet our team. Contact Malinda at 989-418-1032 or [email protected] for more information.

Books and Bubbles is on October 14 from 11 AM–12 PM at Clare City Park and features story time and bubble play for little learners. Contact Jenny at 989-802-1782 or [email protected] for more information.

Crafts, Games, and Autumn Days is on October 21 from 4–6 PM at Clare City Park and offers hands-on activities, fall fun, and friendly conversation. Contact Jenny at 989-802-1782 or [email protected] for more information.

Get Involved
Now more than ever, it’s important to share the positive impact of Head Start. These programs work best when communities come together—local, state, and federal support makes all of this possible.

If you’re a parent, caregiver, or community member, learn more, share your story, or contact your legislators to show your support for early learning.

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

In the News

• Huron Daily Tribune: Published October 2, 2025
• Midland Daily News: Published October 2, 2025​

​These articles highlighted the importance of Head Start in supporting families and provided strong visibility for our Early Childhood programs during this national recognition month.