Newsroom

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.

Mid Michigan Community Action Agency Highlights Services and Community Partnerships During Homeless Awareness Month
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November is Homeless Awareness Month, and Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) is spotlighting practical, community-driven solutions that help individuals and families overcome housing instability and get back on their feet.

Serving Arenac, Bay, Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, and Osceola Counties, with additional support for veterans in Lake, Newaygo, Midland, and Saginaw, Mid Michigan CAA offers targeted services including connections to emergency shelter, rental assistance, and case management. These programs are designed to empower people to regain stability and contribute to their communities.

“Homelessness affects hardworking families, veterans, and seniors in every town,” said Jenn Rodgers, Homeless Program Manager at Mid Michigan CAA. “Homeless Awareness Month is a time to come together, share resources, and make sure people know help is available when life throws a curveball.”

Mid Michigan CAA’s approach is rooted in local partnerships and practical problem-solving. Success depends on collaboration, from landlords and shelters to volunteers, donors, and neighbors who care.

One such partner is Mike, a landlord who works with Mid Michigan CAA to provide safe, affordable housing for tenants transitioning out of homelessness.

“I work with Mid Michigan Community Action because everyone needs a home,” Mike shared. “I try to provide safe, clean places to live and make a home. I try to work with the whole person, not just the immediate circumstance. Homelessness happens every day…often due to circumstances beyond control. Everyone needs a hand up, not a handout.”
Behind every successful housing placement is a team of housing experts and community members working together to help people rebuild and move forward.

“It’s not just about finding someone a place to stay,” Rodgers added. “It’s about restoring dignity, encouraging responsibility, and helping people build a foundation for long-term success. We’ve seen people go from crisis to stability—and that’s only possible when the community steps up.”
 
How to Get Help or Get Involved
If you or someone you know is experiencing housing challenges, contact Mid Michigan CAA by calling or texting 877-213-5955 or emailing [email protected].

To learn how you can support these programs as a partner, donor, or volunteer, visit www.mmcaa.org.

Your donation makes a difference. Every dollar is used efficiently to provide stability and a path forward for those in need. Whether it’s a one-time gift or ongoing support, your contribution helps strengthen families and communities. Give today and invest in solutions that work.
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Mid Michigan Community Action guides local residents on the path to self-sufficiency through empowerment, education, and community enrichment.

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 (Mid Michigan CAA) is excited to announce the relocation of our Mecosta, Midland, and Oceana County Community Action Centers to new locations, allowing us to better serve our neighbors by bringing services together in more accessible spaces.

For over 50 years, Mid Michigan CAA has worked to connect individuals and families with essential resources and opportunities, helping them achieve stability and self-sufficiency. By moving these offices, we continue our mission of making support services more accessible and responsive to the needs of our communities.

Excitement for the Future
Community Empowerment Director Cherri Swanstra shared, “We’re thrilled to bring our services together in these new locations. This allows us to better serve our neighbors by making our programs more accessible and connected. We look forward to continuing our mission and strengthening the communities we serve.”

Early Head Start and WIC Director Amyee Carson added, “These moves allow us to enhance the services we provide for families. We’re excited to welcome our neighbors to these new spaces and continue supporting them with all of our amazing programs.”

Outreach and Opportunities Director Eva Rohlman, who oversees homeless and veteran programs, emphasized, “By consolidating our services in these locations, we can better coordinate and deliver resources to those who need them most. This move strengthens our ability to provide comprehensive support to individuals and families.”

Each of our Community Action Centers has a Resource Navigator on-site to help residents navigate the services available, answer questions about eligibility, and guide individuals through the application process.

New Locations

• Mecosta County–Now located at 706 Maple Street, Big Rapids, this site houses our Mecosta County Community Action Center and Early Childhood Center. Services available include Weatherization Assistance, USDA Food Boxes for income-eligible seniors, HUD-Certified Housing Counseling, Water and Sewer Assistance, Homeless Assistance, and Early Head Start to promote school readiness.
• Midland County–Our Midland County Community Action Center and WIC Clinic have moved to 1717 Ridgewood Drive, Suite 103, Midland. This new location brings together essential services such as Weatherization Assistance, USDA Food Boxes  for income-eligible seniors, HUD-Certified Housing Counseling, Water and Sewer Assistance, Veteran Homeless Assistance, Early Head Start, and WIC services to support growing families.
• Oceana County–The Oceana County Community Action Center has relocated to 195 N Michigan Avenue, Shelby, continuing to provide critical programs such as Weatherization Assistance, USDA Food Boxes for income-eligible seniors, HUD-Certified Housing Counseling, and Water and Sewer Assistance.

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Office Hours & Contact Information
All Community Action Centers are open:

• Monday–Thursday: 8 AM–4:30 PM
• Friday: 8 AM–4 PM
• Closed daily from 12–1 PM for lunch and on major holidays.

For more information, call or text any of our Community Action Centers:

• Bay County: 989-894-9060
• Clare County: 989-386-3805
• Gladwin County: 989-426-2801
• Mecosta County: 231-660-0271
• Midland County: 989-832-7310
• Muskegon County: 231-557-7622
• Oceana County: 231-923-3066
• Osceola County: 231-791-7078

Email: [email protected]
Visit: mmcaa.org

Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube

Mid Michigan Community Action is committed to guiding local residents on the path to self-sufficiency through empowerment, education, and community enrichment. We look forward to serving our neighbors from our new locations and continuing to make a positive impact in the communities we call home.

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.

​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.

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.

On January 25th Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) will be completing the Point-in-Time (PIT) Count. The PIT Count is a federally mandated annual survey to count those experiencing homelessness in the Mid Michigan area.

Mid Michigan CAA is seeking to count individuals and families including those sleeping outdoors or other places not meant for human habitation such as cars or campers, those staying in shelters, and those who are housed with emergency motel stay vouchers.

“The PIT Count helps us better understand who is experiencing homelessness and how prevalent homelessness is in our communities so we can advocate for additional resources, provide high quality services, and end homelessness in our communities,” said Jennifer Rodgers, Homeless Program Manager at Mid Michigan CAA.

The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) uses the data collected to help determine distribution of resources to homeless services agencies, including Mid Michigan CAA. Mid Michigan CAA works with organizations including 211 Northeast Michigan, Good Samaritan Rescue Mission, Listening Ear, Michigan Balance of State Continuum of Care, New Dawn Shelter, Our Brothers Keeper Shelter, R.I.S.E., Shelterhouse, and WISE.

Residents of Arenac, Bay, Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, and Osceola Counties who are experiencing homelessness can call or text 877-213-5955 or email [email protected].

For more information about the PIT Count, contact the PIT Coordinator, Jennifer Rodgers, at [email protected].

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

Mid Michigan Community Action Hosts Quarterly and Senior Food Distributions
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Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) now hosts commodities distributions for those in need of food in Muskegon and Oceana Counties.

“We are proud to begin providing this critical service in Muskegon and Oceana Counties,” said Eva Rohlman, Outreach Director at Mid Michigan CAA. “We have established a public distribution site at the Ladder Community Center in Shelby and are eager to expand our services to more locations across the two counties in the coming months.”

The Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) is for low-income seniors 60 and over and consists of two boxes distributed every other month. The next distribution is on January 30th at the Ladder Community Center in Shelby from 11:30 AM-12:30 PM.

“Senior food boxes contain USDA products aimed at filling nutrient gaps in seniors’ diets,” said Kristi Shakula, Commodities Manager at Mid Michigan CAA. “The boxes include items like canned fruits and vegetables, canned meats, cereals, grains, ultra-high temperature (UHT) milk, and cheese.”

The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) is a quarterly distribution for individuals and families of all ages in need of emergency food. Quarterly distributions occur in March, May, September, and November. The next distribution is on March 27th at the Ladder Community Center in Shelby from 11:30 AM-12:30 PM.

“The quarterly food box contains products that vary from quarter to quarter. They are designed to distribute excess agricultural products to deliver food to people who can use it while minimizing food waste,” said Shakula.

To apply for either program, bring your ID to the next distribution near you. Muskegon County residents are invited to attend the Shelby distribution location.

For a complete calendar of senior distributions, visit www.mmcaa.org/seniors. For a complete calendar of quarterly distributions, visit www.mmcaa.org/economicsecurity.html#food. The calendars will be updated as new distribution sites are added. To learn more, call your local office: Muskegon County office at 231-557-7622 or Oceana County office at 231-923-3066.

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

Proposed FY2023 Community Service Block Grant Plan
September 6, 2022, 10:00 AM

Mid Michigan Community Action is holding a public hearing to receive comments regarding the FY2023 CSBG Plan as required by DHHS.
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Location: MMCAA Administrative Office, 1574 E. Washington Rd, Farwell

The plan summary is as follows $1,331,769 will be utilized in Bay, Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, Midland, Muskegon, Oceana, and Osceola Counties to provide services to low-income households.  Persons who want to review the plan may contact Jill Sutton at 989-386-3805 between 8AM and 4PM, Monday through Friday.  Materials can be provided in alternative formats upon request.