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​On January 29, Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) will conduct the local annual Point-in-Time (PIT) Count. This survey, required by the federal government, counts how many people are homeless on a single night. This includes those sleeping outside, in places not meant for living, in shelters, or using emergency motel vouchers.

“The PIT Count is essential for understanding homelessness in our communities,” said Jennifer Rodgers, Homeless Program Manager at Mid Michigan CAA. “The data helps us get more resources, improve our services, and work towards ending homelessness.”

The data from the PIT Count is used by the Michigan Balance of State Continuum of Care and HUD to distribute funding and resources to homeless service agencies, including Mid Michigan CAA. Locally, the agency works with organizations like 2-1-1, Good Samaritan Rescue Mission in Bay City, Our Brother’s Keeper shelter in Big Rapids, New Dawn Shelter in Gladwin, Listening Ear, Youth Attention Center, RISE, Shelterhouse, and WISE.

How You Can Help: If you know of camps or people who are homeless, call or text 877-213-5955 to share their location so they can be counted.
People in Arenac, Bay, Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, and Osceola Counties who are homeless can also call or text 877-213-5955 or email [email protected] for help. Services are also available for veterans in Lake, Newaygo, Midland, and Saginaw Counties.

For more information about the PIT Count, contact Jennifer Rodgers at [email protected].
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Mid Michigan Community Action helps local residents become self-sufficient through empowerment, education, and community support.

​Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) is proud to announce that it has been awarded a $5,000 grant from the Oceana Community Foundation to support housing counseling services in Oceana County. Funding for this project is provided by the Community Investment Fund, Homeless Prevention Endowment Fund, and William R. Lathers Foundation Fund.

This grant will help Mid Michigan CAA provide essential housing counseling services, including assistance for those seeking housing stability, first time homebuyers, and counseling on property tax and foreclosure resources. These services are designed to ensure individuals and families in Oceana County have access to resources and support to secure and maintain safe, stable housing.

“We are so grateful to the Oceana Community Foundation for their continued commitment to strengthening our community. This grant will help us reach those who need housing counseling services most, supporting families and individuals on their path to stability,” said Cherri Swanstra, Community Empowerment Director at Mid Michigan CAA.
Those in need of housing counseling services can contact Mid Michigan CAA's Oceana office by calling or texting 231-923-3066 or emailing [email protected].

The Oceana Community Foundation partners with organizations like Mid Michigan CAA to ensure donor contributions make a meaningful impact. The Foundation’s funds, including the Community Investment Fund, Homeless Prevention Endowment Fund, and William R. Lathers Foundation Fund, support programs that improve the quality of life for Oceana County residents.

About Mid Michigan Community Action:
Mid Michigan Community Action has been serving communities since 1966, empowering individuals and families toward self-sufficiency. Programs and services include housing assistance, food distribution, energy resources, and more.

About the Oceana Community Foundation:
The Oceana Community Foundation is dedicated to building a better future for Oceana County by connecting people, resources, and opportunities. Through donor partnerships and grantmaking, the Foundation supports projects that enhance the well-being of the community.

For more information about Mid Michigan Community Action, call or text 231-923-3066 or email [email protected].

This project was funded in part by the Community Investment Fund, Homeless Prevention Endowment Fund, and William R. Lathers Foundation Fund of the Oceana Community Foundation.
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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 (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.

As temperatures begin to drop, Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) recognizes October as National Weatherization Month, a time to raise awareness of the many benefits of Weatherizing homes.

The Weatherization Assistance Program helps households struggling with high energy costs improve energy efficiency, reduce utility costs, and ensure comfort throughout the year—benefits that are especially important as winter approaches in Michigan, but Weatherization isn’t just for cold weather! This program offers year-round advantages by sealing air leaks, adding insulation, and making homes more energy-efficient for both heating and cooling systems.

Benefits of Weatherization:

• Lower Utility Bills: Families can save an average of $283 annually in energy costs by improving home efficiency.
• Enhanced Comfort: A Weatherized home stays warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer, reducing the strain on heating and cooling systems.
• Health and Safety: Weatherization can also improve air quality by reducing indoor pollutants, moisture, and allergens, making homes healthier and safer for families.
• Environmental Impact: Weatherization reduces energy consumption, helping Michigan residents lower their carbon footprint and contribute to a healthier planet.

"Weatherization is an essential tool for families who want to reduce energy bills and improve their living conditions. With winter on the way, now is the perfect time to begin the process of making homes more energy-efficient and comfortable," said Johnny Mills, Weatherization Director at Mid Michigan CAA. "We are proud to help families save money and improve comfort."

Mid Michigan CAA is proud to offer Weatherization in Bay, Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, Midland, Muskegon, Oceana, and Osceola Counties. Homeowners, renters, homes on land contract, and landlords with multi-unit housing are eligible.

Call or text your local office to learn more about the program and get started:

• 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
• Call Toll-Free: 1-877-213-5948
• Email us at [email protected]

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

This October Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) is celebrating Head Start Awareness Month, recognizing the vital role that both Early Head Start and Preschool Head Start programs play in the development of young children and families. These programs work together to provide critical resources and comprehensive support for children from birth through age 5 and pregnant individuals, ensuring they receive the education, health, and family services needed for a strong start in life.

Early Head Start serves pregnant individuals and children from birth through age 3 in Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, Midland, and Osceola Counties, focusing on nurturing infant and toddler development during these critical early years. The program helps parents build strong bonds with their children, supports health and wellness, and offers resources to create a foundation for lifelong learning.

“Early Head Start supports families during some of the most important developmental years of a child’s life,” said Amyee Carson, Early Head Start & WIC Director at Mid Michigan CAA. “We partner with parents to support pregnancies and provide the guidance and resources needed to help infants and toddlers grow, learn, and build strong relationships. It’s truly about giving families the tools to support their child’s healthy development right from the start.”

Preschool serves children from ages 3 through 5 in Clare and Gladwin Counties, providing high-quality early education that promotes school readiness through play, hands-on learning, and the development of essential social, emotional, and cognitive skills.

“Our Preschool program is all about creating a strong foundation for children as they prepare for school,” said Stephanie VanderElzen, Head Start Director at Mid Michigan CAA. “We focus on nurturing each child’s curiosity, creativity, and social skills through engaging, play-based learning. Head Start is more than just education—it’s about empowering children and their families to thrive.”

To learn more or apply for Early Head Start, visit www.mmcaa.org/earlyheadstart or call or text 1-877-386-4406.

To learn more or apply for Preschool, visit www.mmcaa.org/preschoolheadstart or call 989-386-8075.
 
Mid Michigan CAA is dedicated to providing comprehensive early childhood education and family services through programs like Head Start. We are committed to ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive in a supportive environment and reach their fullest potential.
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Mid Michigan Community Action Agency 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.

​Mid Michigan Community Action is excited to announce the extension of our tax preparation services and Home Heating Credit filing through September 13th.
 
Our dedicated team of IRS-trained and certified tax preparation volunteers can assist with filing Federal and State Income Tax Returns, ensuring that all applicable credits, including the Home Heating Credit and Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), are claimed.  Previous tax years may also be prepared and E-filed for free.
 
Individuals interested in taking advantage of these extended services should call or text 989-418-0992 to schedule an appointment or to obtain more information. Our team is committed to providing professional and reliable assistance to ensure that taxpayers receive the benefits they are entitled to.
 
"At Mid Michigan Community Action, we understand that life can be unpredictable, and sometimes meeting the tax deadline can be challenging," said Cherri Swanstra, Community Empowerment Director. "We are here to support our community by extending our tax preparation services through September 13th, 2024, making it easier for individuals and families to fulfill their tax obligations and receive the credits they deserve."
 
Our tax preparation volunteers have undergone rigorous training and certification by the IRS, ensuring that they are well-equipped to handle a variety of tax situations. This initiative is part of our ongoing commitment to providing essential services and support to our community, helping to alleviate financial stress and promote economic stability.
 
For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call or text Rebeca at 989-418-0992. Don't miss out on the opportunity to have your taxes and Home Heating Credits prepared by our skilled volunteers.
 
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.

Clare County has been awarded $17,437, Gladwin County has been awarded $14,064, Mecosta County has been awarded $23,389, and Osceola County has been awarded $13,160 from the Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency under the Emergency Food and Shelter National Board Program to supplement local emergency food and shelter programs.
 
A Local Board is charged to distribute funds appropriated by Congress to help expand the capacity of food and shelter programs in high-need areas around the country. The Local Board will determine how the funds awarded to Clare County will be distributed to local service agencies.
 
Under the terms of the grant from the National Board, local agencies chosen to receive funds must: 1) be a private non-profit or unit of government, 2) be eligible to receive Federal funds, 3) have an accounting system, 4) practice nondiscrimination, 5) have demonstrated the capability to deliver emergency food or shelter programs, and 6) if they are a non-profit organization, have a voluntary board. Qualifying agencies are urged to apply.

Public or non-profit agencies interested in applying for Emergency Food and Shelter Program funds must contact their local board chair for an application.
 
Clare County: Cherri Swanstra, Clare County EFSP Board Chair, [email protected]
The deadline for applications to be received is March 1, 2024. The Local Board Meeting will be held virtually on March 5, 2024, at 2:00 PM.

Gladwin County: Cherri Swanstra, Gladwin County EFSP Board Chair, [email protected]
The deadline for applications to be received is March 1, 2024. The Local Board Meeting will be held virtually on March 5, 2024, at 1:00 PM.

Mecosta County: Diane Long, Mecosta County EFSP Board Co-Chair, [email protected]
The deadline for applications to be received is March 1, 2024. The Local Board Meeting will be held virtually on March 7, 2024, at 1:00 PM.

Osceola County: Malinda Coss, Osceola County EFSP Board Co-Chair, [email protected]
​The deadline for applications to be received is March 1, 2024. The Local Board Meeting will be held virtually on March 7, 2024, at 2:00 PM.

Attendance for applicants is required.
 

Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) is now enrolling for the 2023-2024 school year. Children who will be 3 or 4 on September 1st, 2023 are eligible.

Preschool provides learning opportunities, social emotional activities, and structured playtime for children ages 3 through 5 and support for their families in Clare and Gladwin Counties. Children enrolled in preschool transition to kindergarten ready and eager to learn.

“We make partnering with families the heart of our approach to early learning and child development,” said Stephanie VanderElzen, Head Start Director at Mid Michigan CAA.

To complete an application, call 989-386-8075, visit www.claregladwinpreschool.org, or attend one of our upcoming open houses:

• April 25th from 4-6 PM at Mid Michigan Community Action, 1302 Chatterton St, Gladwin
• April 26th from 4-6 PM at Gladwin Elementary School, Door 7, 600 W First St, Gladwin
• May 4th from 4-6 PM at Beaverton Activity Center, 106 Tonkin St, Beaverton
• May 9th from 5-7 PM at Mid Michigan Community Action, 1574 E Washington Rd, Farwell
• May 9th from 5-7 PM at Hillside Elementary, 201 N 4th St, Harrison
• May 10th from 5-7 PM at Clare Castle Preschool, 502 Beech St, Clare
• May 22nd from 4-6 PM at Farwell Elementary School, 268 Ohio St, Farwell

Please bring your child’s birth certificate, health insurance card, and immunization record; and your driver’s license or ID and income for the last 12 months (SSI, check stubs, child support, unemployment, 1040, or W2).

Clare and Gladwin Counties Quality Preschool Partnership is a collaboration of five local agencies and schools providing Head Start and Great Start Readiness Program services throughout Clare and Gladwin Counties. The Partnership is a workgroup of the Great Start Collaborative of Clare and Gladwin Counties.

Learn more about all Mid Michigan CAA’s early childhood programs at www.mmcaa.org/ecs. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn at @midmichigancommunityaction for news and updates.
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Mid Michigan Community Action guides local residents on the path to self-sufficiency through empowerment, education and community enrichment.