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HELP

Programs

Homeless Prevention

The East Shoreline Chapter of the American Red Cross receives federal and state grants to assist Bay and Arenac County residents with eviction notices, foreclosures and utility shut-off notices.

Those in need must be able to meet grant guidelines. Guidelines vary depending on the funding source so it is recommended that you call the office and speak to a caseworker before coming into the office.

From July 1, 2004 – June 30, 2005, the East Shoreline Chapter assisted 2036 families with emergency financial assistance totaling $124,829.77.

Emergency Shelter

In Arenac County, the East Shoreline Chapter maintains two one-bedroom apartments and one two-bedroom apartment to use as emergency shelter. This program is for those who find themselves without anywhere to go and is available for up to a 30-day stay.

Services provided to shelter residents may include, but are not limited to:

Food
Household and Personal Care Products
Transportation Assistance
Interagency Referrals
Bill Payment Assistance
Family Advocacy
Case Management Services

This program is funded through the Michigan State Housing Development Authority, Rural Homeless Initiative Award.

Transitional Housing

In Bay County a transitional housing program is available to those who are homeless and is designed to work with individuals and families who are committed to reaching a goal of self-sufficiency.

The Bay County Continuum of Care, a local body that was established to provide a comprehensive network of services to address the issues of homelessness in Bay County, stated in their 2003-2005 Continuum of Care Planning Document that the "lack of transitional housing programs is an obstacle to providing adequate services to those affected by homelessness" in Bay County.

As a result, this program was developed and able to house up to 5 individuals/families at anyone time. Not only will these units be a start to removing a barrier in our county, they may also help reduce chronic homelessness in our area.

Participants will stay in the program 12 – 18 months and must work towards self-identified goals during that time. These goals may include employment, education, or budgeting to name just a few examples.

The transitional housing program is funded by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).