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Local News

Port Huron’s Urban Pioneer+ Program Offering $10,000 Down Payment Assistance For Homebuyers

Port Huron’s Urban Pioneer+ program, geared towards low-to-moderate-income, first-time homebuyers within the city limits is offering up to $10,000 in down payment assistance. 

Applicants can utilize the funds towards down payments, closing costs, and/or pre-paid items. The program defines “first-time homebuyer” as someone who hasn’t owned real estate in the past three years. Applicants are required to invest a minimum of 3% of the home’s purchase price into the mortgage transaction and attend a homebuyer education class through Blue Water Community Action Agency. 

The assistance, forgivable after five years, comes with residency requirements and property standards. Properties purchased via Land Contract financing are ineligible, and the HUD-set maximum purchase price stands at $218,000. 

For more details, contact the Community Development Office at: (810) 984-9736.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Root Juicery Sprouts Up In Downtown Port Huron, Offering Healthy Grab & Go Options

Downtown Port Huron welcomed a refreshing addition to the scene as the Root Juicery opened its doors on March 27th. Located at 206 Huron Ave., the new establishment offers a variety of healthy options catering to health-conscious patrons. 

From 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., customers can indulge in cold pressed juices, including 100% celery or carrot juice blends, alongside alkaline water and iced/cold coffee. For those seeking an immune system boost, the juicery also serves a variety of herbal and vitamin shots. If juice isn’t your thing they also offer a variety of wraps and other food items.

The menu boasts a range of prices between $3.50 and $9.00, making it affordable for various budgets. Whether craving a nutritious beverage or on-the-go food item, Root Juicery promises a flavorful experience for all.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

FEMA Extends Deadline For Michigan Storm Victims To Apply For Federal Assistance

Residents across nine Michigan counties hit by severe storms, tornadoes, and flooding in August 2023 now have more time to seek federal aid as FEMA extends the application deadline to May 8th. 

The affected counties include Eaton, Ingham, Ionia, Kent, Livingston, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland, and Wayne. Homeowners and renters facing damages can apply for assistance through various channels, including online at DisasterAssistance.gov, via the FEMA mobile app, or by calling the FEMA helpline. 

The assistance covers a range of needs, such as rental assistance, personal property damage, lodging reimbursement, and basic home repairs. FEMA emphasizes that only one application per household is permitted, and it does not cover lost food expenses or duplicate insurance payments. Survivors are urged to take advantage of this extended deadline to access crucial support for recovery.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan Attorney General Launches Comprehensive Website For Opioid Settlement Distributions

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel unveiled a pioneering website aimed at streamlining information on opioid settlement distributions. 

The platform consolidates vital resources for residents and local governments grappling with the opioid crisis. Visitors can access addiction support, settlement documents, and a payment estimator detailing allocations. Furthermore, links to state grants and advisory commissions enhance accessibility. 

Since assuming office in 2019, Nessel’s relentless pursuit of justice has secured over $1.6 billion for Michigan through settlements. The website underscores her commitment to transparency and accountability in combating the epidemic. With a spotlight on fund utilization, including local initiatives and strategic plans, the site stands as a pivotal tool in Michigan’s fight against opioid abuse.

For more information, visit: michigan.gov.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Headline: Egg Prices Reach Near-Historic Highs Globally Ahead Of Spring Holidays

As Easter and Passover approach, consumers worldwide are grappling with soaring egg prices, driven by a tumultuous market shaped by disease, surging demand, and escalating production costs for farmers. This marks the second consecutive year of significant price hikes for eggs during these festivities, underscoring the severity of the situation.

Experts note that while global prices have dipped slightly from last year’s peak, they remain substantially elevated, with little prospect of returning to pre-pandemic levels.

In the United States, despite a slight decrease from last year, the average price of a dozen eggs remains markedly higher than in 2021. Similarly, European prices, though down from last year, remain double those of two years ago. Avian flu outbreaks continue to exacerbate the crisis, causing widespread poultry loss globally.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

The Closet By A Beautiful Me Celebrates 5th Anniversary With $5 Dress Sale

In celebration of its 5th Anniversary Year, The Closet by A Beautiful Me is offering a remarkable inventory reduction sale on Friday, April 5th from 12 – 8 p.m., slashing prices on select trendy dresses to just $5.00 each. The nonprofit organization aims to build girls’ confidence through original programs, with every dress purchase supporting their mission.

Executive Director Karen Palka emphasizes the diverse collection available, catering to women of all sizes and styles. The one-day sale boasts over 90% savings, making it an irresistible opportunity for shoppers. Palka attributes the sale to a strategic decision to reduce inventory while commemorating the organization’s milestone. 

Since its inception in January 2019, The Closet has not only offered affordable fashion but also provided free business certification training for teen girls, aligning with its mission to empower and uplift young women.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell