Dear Neighbors,
One of the greatest privileges of serving as your State Senator is the opportunity to connect with you and share valuable information that can make your life in Michigan better and more fulfilling.
In this newsletter, you’ll find information on a range of resources and programs designed to assist with education, family support and more. I hope these updates will help you stay informed about the opportunities available to you and your loved ones.
As always, if you or someone you know wants to provide feedback about what’s happening in the Capitol or need assistance, please feel free to reach out to my team at any time. You can email us at SenSAnthony@senate.michigan.gov or call (517) 373-6960.
In Service,
Sarah Anthony
State Senator
District 21
Featured in This Newsletter
- Resources and Programs for Michigan Families
- Setting up MI Students for Success
- Connecting with the Community — August and September Community Conversations
- Blueprint for Better Housing — Community Conversation
- Building up Michigan with Strategic Investments — Community Conversation
Resources and Programs for Michigan Families
WIC (Women, Infants, & Children) Program Expands Eligibility Requirements to Serve More Families
Michigan’s WIC program has updated their guidelines to now allow even more families to qualify and receive benefits. Participants can use their WIC EBT card to purchase essential foods like fresh produce, milk, bread, eggs, and infant formula at select stores. Find out if you’re eligible and how to access benefits here.
Find the Help You Need with Michigan 2-1-1
Michigan 2-1-1 is an all-in-one resource for Michiganders. Call 2-1-1 or go to their website to find information and resources pertaining to utility assistance, housing programs, food assistance, HIV/STI services, COVID-19, home visiting, grief and bereavement resources and services and much more. The 2-1-1 line is open 24/7 and offers help in over 180 languages. You can also use this link to find your local number to text.
Setting up MI Students for Success
Michigan Reconnect Applications Open for Expanded Age Group
As one of the original sponsors of the legislation to create this program I’m proud to share with you, the Michigan Reconnect — previously limited to individuals aged 25 and older — has expanded its eligibility to include adults between the ages of 21 and 24 who have not yet obtained a college degree. The Reconnect program allows eligible students to pursue an associate degree or Pell-eligible skills certificate at in-district community colleges without the burden of tuition fees.
Applicants ages 21 to 24 must enroll no later than the fall semester of 2024. Students in the 21-24 age bracket must also apply for Reconnect before the application closes on November 15, 2024.
To be eligible, you just need to:
- Be at least 21 years of age;
- Apply and enroll in a community or tribal college no later than fall semester 2024;
- Complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid);
- Have lived in Michigan for at least a year;
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent or certificate of completion; and
- Have not yet completed a college degree.
Don’t wait, apply today!
Apply for Free PreK Today!
As chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I was proud to lead the development of a budget that prioritizes free preschool. The 2025 state budget gives access to free PreK for many Michigan four-year-olds, prioritizing those who need it most. This saves families $10,000 per year.
It’s not too late for families to enroll their four-year-old in PreK this fall! If you have a child who will be 4 years old by December 1, there are seats available this fall. Go to MiFreePreschool.org to find programs near you.
Free Summer Meals for Students
It can be a challenge for families to keep food on the table while school is out for the summer. One in six kids in Michigan face food insecurity, and more than 850,000 Michigan children rely on free public school lunches. That’s why organizations and local school districts are working with Meet Up and Eat Up and providing those ages 18 and under with delicious, nutritious meals.
All summer long, children 18 and under can eat healthy, satisfying meals in their own communities at no cost. No application forms required, no registration needed, and no proof of residency asked for — just show up and enjoy a meal! All meals must be eaten at the site. Visit the interactive map for locations near you. You can also text “FOOD” or “COMIDA” to 304-304 to find free meals in your neighborhood.
Gear Up for School: Free Backpack Giveaway on August 15
With summer winding down and the new school year approaching, it’s important to ensure your children are prepared for a successful start. The upcoming Backpack Giveaway on August 15 is a great opportunity to stock up on essential school supplies without the added financial stress. This event, hosted at the Don Johnson Fieldhouse (Eastern High School Football Field Parking Lot) from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m., will provide 1,200 free backpacks filled with school supplies, helping your kids head back to school ready to learn and thrive.
I encourage you to take advantage of this fantastic community resource, supported by local organizations like Power 96.5 FM, Communities In Schools, and many others.
Please note: This is a drive-up event, and all families must remain in their vehicles during the event. One backpack will be given per child in attendance, and vehicles without a child present will be provided with one backpack.
Connecting with the Community — August and September Community Conversations
Blueprint for Better Housing — Community Conversation
I’m excited to invite you to a special edition of my Community Conversations, where we’ll focus on the critical issue of housing in our community. This event is your chance to engage with me directly as we discuss the barriers many of us face in securing affordable, safe, and stable housing — and, more importantly, how we can work together to overcome them.
This event will take place on Tuesday, August 27, from 5:30 – 7:00 p.m. and will be held at the Neighborhood Empowerment Center, located at 600 W Maple St., Lansing, MI 48906.
Your voice and experiences are invaluable to this conversation, and I’m eager to hear your thoughts, concerns, and ideas as we navigate these challenges together. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a meaningful discussion that impacts us all.
Building up Michigan with Strategic Investments — Community Conversation
I also want to invite you to another special edition of my Community Conversations, where we’ll dive into the recently passed 2025 State Budget and its impact on our community.
Join me on Monday, September 23, from 5:30 – 7:00 p.m. at the Mason Area Historical Museum (200 E Oak St, Mason, MI 48854) to discuss key aspects of the budget, including how it addresses housing, education, and essential services.
This is your opportunity to provide your thoughts and feedback as we break down what the new budget means for you, your family, and the future of our state.
I look forward to seeing you there!