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A 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

• Wilcox Newspaper: Over $10k donated from Clare High School’s Bartering Bonanza, Published November 28, 2025

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.

Update, 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

• WNEM: Bank launches voting-based campaign to donate to Mid-Michigan nonprofits, Published November 21, 2025
• Midland Daily News: Isabella Bank launches $24K holiday giving, Published December 1, 2025
• The Benzie County Record Patriot: Isabella Bank announces winners of Holiday With Heart Giving Campaign, Published December 21, 2025

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.

Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA), in partnership with United Way of Clare and Gladwin Counties, is hosting Fun Day in the Park Friday, July 16th, from 11 AM-2 PM at Emerald Isle Recreation Park in Clare.

Join us at this drive-through event for child-friendly construction-themed crafts and activities, community resources, and more!

Organizations in attendance will include Mid Michigan Community Action, Clare-Gladwin RESD, Early On, MSU Extension Office, Northern Michigan Alliance for Children, the Department of Health and Human Services, Ennis Center for Children, Community Mental Health for Central Michigan, Central Michigan District Health Department, MidMichigan Health, Peoplelink Staffing Solutions, and the Girl Scouts.

“After months of being apart, we are proud and excited to take this step back towards normalcy and host our Fun Day in the Park event,” said Sue Harvey, Early Childhood Services Director at Mid Michigan CAA. “We are thrilled to once again have the opportunity to work with our community partners to put on this event as well as provide resources for the children and families of our community.”

Contact Kristine at [email protected] or Rebecca at [email protected] with any questions or learn more here.

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