Newsroom
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.
|
[Clare, MI—] Mid Michigan Community Action (Mid Michigan CAA) recently partnered with Huntington Bank for the bank’s annual Service Heart Day, bringing together volunteers to support local families through food distribution efforts.
Approximately 60 Huntington Bank colleagues spent several hours working alongside Mid Michigan CAA staff to package food for distribution across the region. Together, the group completed 27 pallets of food, with each pallet weighing nearly 1,800 pounds, resulting in tens of thousands of pounds of food ready to reach households in need. “This partnership shows what’s possible when people come together to support their community,” said Cherri Swanstra, Community Impact Director. “We are grateful to the Huntington Bank team for spending the day with us. Their time, energy, and commitment helped make a real difference for families across our service area.” Service Heart Day reflects Huntington Bank’s commitment to giving back through hands-on service. Events like this help meet immediate needs while also building strong connections between community partners. At Mid Michigan CAA, food programs are an important part of supporting households across the region. Partnerships like this one help ensure that more families have access to the resources they need. Mid Michigan Community Action guides local residents on the path to self-sufficiency through empowerment, education and community enrichment.
0 Comments
Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) is offering a new opportunity for older adults to make their homes safer and easier to live in. The Home Ramp Up Program, officially known as the Older Adults Home Modification Program (OAHMP), provides no-cost home improvements to help individuals maintain independence and quality of life.
“Our homes should support us as we age,” said Cherri Swanstra, Community Impact Director at Mid Michigan CAA. “Through this program, we’re making everyday life safer and more accessible for older adults in our community, one ramp, one grab bar, one improvement at a time.” About the Program Home Ramp Up helps eligible homeowners aged 62 and older by providing modifications that reduce the risk of falls and improve accessibility. These updates are customized to each household and may include: • Ramps • Grab bars and handrails • Toilet and faucet replacements • Tub cuts and walk-in tubs • Adaptive equipment and other safety enhancements By making these changes, the program helps older adults live safely and comfortably in the homes they love. Available in Eight Counties The Home Ramp Up Program is available at no cost for eligible homeowners aged 62 and older in Bay, Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, Midland, Muskegon, Oceana, and Osceola Counties. To learn more or apply, call or text your local Mid Michigan CAA office: • Bay County: 989-894-9060 • Clare County: 989-386-3805 • Gladwin County: 989-426-2801 • Mecosta County: 231-660-0271 • Midland County: 989-832-7377 • Muskegon County: 231-557-7622 • Oceana County: 231-923-3066 • Osceola County: 231-791-7078 Or email [email protected] for more information. Empowering Independence and Community Mid Michigan Community Action has supported individuals and families for 60 years with programs focused on stability, self-sufficiency, and quality of life. Home Ramp Up is another way we’re helping our neighbors stay safe, independent, and connected to their community. In the News White Lake Beacon: Helping Older Adults Stay Safe at Home, Published February 14, 2026 Oceana's Herald-Journal: Helping Older Adults Stay Safe at Home, Published February 18, 2026 Gladwin County Record & Beaverton Clarion: Home ramp up program available, Published February 18, 2026 Midland Daily News: Home Ramp Up program offers free home upgrades for older adults, Published February 26, 2026 The Benzie County Record Patriot: Home Ramp Up program offers free home upgrades for older adults, Published February 26, 2026 Big Rapids Pioneer: Home Ramp Up program offer free home upgrades for older adults, Published February 26, 2026 A recent announcement from Consumers Energy shares that they are committing $5 million to help customers across Michigan with energy bills and other needs—funds that will be distributed through partnerships with local organizations, including Mid Michigan Community Action.
We’re honored to be included as a partner in this initiative and proud to work alongside Consumers Energy to connect neighbors with the resources they need. To learn more about the announcement and all the partners involved, you can read the full release on the Consumers Energy website: Consumers Energy Stands with Customers on Energy Costs, Continues Its Commitment, Provides $5 Million to Lower Bills In the News Clare County Cleaver: Consumers Energy Stands with Customers on Energy Costs, Continues Its Commitment, Provides $5 Million to Lower Bills, Published January 12, 2026 WNEM5: Consumers Energy to invest $5M to help customers manage energy costs, Published January 12, 2026 WILX10: Consumers Energy to invest $5M to help customers manage energy costs, Published January 12, 2026 PR Newswire: Consumers Energy Stands with Customers on Energy Costs, Continues Its Commitment, Provides $5 Million to Lower Bills, Published January 12, 2026 Stock Titan: Consumers Energy Stands with Customers on Energy Costs, Continues Its Commitment, Provides $5 Million to Lower Bills, Published January 12, 2026 The Malaysian Reserve: Consumers Energy Stands with Customers on Energy Costs, Continues Its Commitment, Provides $5 Million to Lower Bills, Published January 12, 2026 Michigan Chronicle: Consumers Energy Invests $5 Million to Help Michigan Families Manage Rising Energy Costs, Published January 14, 2026 WHMI: Consumers Energy Provides $5 Million To Help Lower Bills For Customers, Published January 16, 2025 These articles highlight Consumers Energy’s announcement of a $5 million investment to help Michigan customers manage energy costs in 2026, including partnerships with local agencies like Mid Michigan Community Action to support direct assistance, community programs, and neighbor‑to‑neighbor resources. Mid Michigan Community Action to Participate in Annual Point-in-Time Count
On January 28, 2026, Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) will take part across the country in the annual Point-in-Time (PIT) Count, a nationwide effort to count people who are experiencing homelessness on a single night. The PIT Count helps identify needs in local communities and connects those experiencing homelessness with housing support and other critical resources. Mid Michigan CAA will be participating in the count across Arenac, Bay, Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, and Osceola Counties. The agency provides services for individuals, families, youth, and veterans experiencing housing insecurity in those counties, as well as for veterans and their families in Lake, Midland, Newaygo, and Saginaw Counties. “The PIT Count is about more than numbers,” said Jenn Rodgers, Homeless Programs Manager at Mid Michigan CAA. “It gives us a chance to reach people who may not yet be connected to help. Being counted can be the first step toward stable housing.” To help ensure everyone is counted, Mid Michigan CAA is asking for help from the community. If you know of a place where someone may be staying without stable housing, such as outside, in a vehicle, or in an abandoned building, please call or text 877‑213‑5955 or email [email protected]. Sharing locations helps outreach teams include people in the count and offer support. The PIT Count is part of a national initiative led by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The information collected helps guide funding decisions, improve services, and strengthen housing solutions for people facing homelessness. To learn more about local housing programs and the PIT Count, visit www.mmcaa.org/homeless-solutions. About Mid Michigan Community Action Agency Mid Michigan CAA has been serving our communities since 1966. Our programs address a wide range of needs, including housing support, early childhood education, food access, energy assistance, and more. We serve a core region of eight counties: Bay, Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, Midland, Muskegon, Oceana, and Osceola. In addition, some of our programs, like homeless services, extend beyond these counties to meet specific community needs. This broader reach helps us connect more people with meaningful resources and support for long-term stability. To learn more about our programs, visit 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 Clare County Cleaver: Helping Our Neighbors Starts with Understanding, Published 12, 2026 Gladwin County Record and Beaverton Clarion: Mid Michigan Community Action to participate in annual Point-in-Time Count, Published January 14, 2026 This article showcases our highlights our efforts for the Point-in-Time Count across region. Recent articles in the Big Rapids Pioneer and Midland Daily News celebrate the incredible service of MaryJo Barnes, a longtime advocate for veterans and a dedicated staff member at Mid Michigan Community Action. MaryJo has spent years supporting veterans through our Veteran Housing Support program, helping individuals and families find stable housing, avoid homelessness, and connect with community and veteran resources.
The article also highlights MaryJo’s work beyond the agency. She volunteers with the annual Midland Project Community Connect resource fair, as well as being involved with the Midland Wellbeing Coalition and Great Lakes Bay Veterans Coalition. She also helps bring food boxes to veterans from the food pantry when needed. Her commitment goes far beyond her job title—she’s a tireless advocate, a connector, and a steady presence in the lives of many local veterans. Through Mid Michigan Community Action, MaryJo supports veterans and their families across our service area. Learn more about how Mid Michigan Community Action supports veteran housing here. In the News
This article honors MaryJo Barnes’ years of commitment to veterans, both through Mid Michigan Community Action and her independent volunteer efforts, highlighting the value of strong community partnerships and persistent compassion. 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
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
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. Mid Michigan Community Action guides local residents on the path to self-sufficiency through empowerment, education, and community enrichment. In the News Clare County Cleaver: Mid Michigan Community Action Agency Highlights Services and Community Partnerships During Homeless Awareness Month, Published November 3, 2025 Mid Michigan Community Action Featured in Catalyst Midland for Volunteer Food‑Packing Event10/30/2025 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
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
Office Hours & Contact Information All Community Action Centers are open:
For more information, call or text any of our Community Action Centers:
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. Mid Michigan Community Action guides local residents on the path to self-sufficiency through empowerment, education, and community enrichment. |
Archives
April 2026
Categories
All
|
RSS Feed
Community Action Center Hours
Monday-Thursday from 8 AM-4:30 PM
Friday from 8 AM-4 PM
Closed daily from 12-1 PM
Friday from 8 AM-4 PM
Closed daily from 12-1 PM
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.
This institution is an equal opportunity provider