Vinculum Care, LLC, a local provider of home help services, has been awarded a $211,000 grant from the IMPART Alliance, selected from a competitive pool of over 900 small business applicants. The funding will support the company’s mission to expand and improve services for seniors and individuals in need of care across St. Clair County. Key initiatives include growing its home help offerings, enhancing caregiver training programs, investing in innovative technologies such as virtual reality, and creating new job opportunities for direct care workers. “We focus on providing excellent care, and that’s only possible with well-trained direct care workers,” said Elia Hussain, CEO of Vinculum Care, LLC. “This grant allows us to continue investing in our team and the tools they need to provide compassionate, high-quality support.” The award highlights Vinculum Care’s leadership and commitment to improving long-term care services in the region.

A Caro man was convicted of murder in the death of his one-year-old son. Brian Elswick, 28, was found guilty on April 23rd of open murder, child abuse, and lying to police. The child was rushed to a hospital after being found unresponsive at their home in February of ’24. Authorities noted signs of abuse, and the child was later airlifted but died on from a traumatic brain injury. Elswick faces life in prison without parole when sentenced on May 22nd.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

On Saturday, hundreds gathered under the Blue Water Bridge in Port Huron for Michigan’s “Bridge of Friendship” event, aimed at supporting Canada amid rising tensions. Protesters were voicing opposition to President Trump’s tariffs. Organized by local groups like Yoopers Unite, the gathering highlighted frustration over tariffs affecting cross-border relationships. Many attendees said the protest was a response to what they felt was unfair treatment of Canada.

The United Way of St. Clair County wrapped up its ’24 fundraising campaign at a special event marking its 100th anniversary. Campaign Chair Deb Johnson announced they raised $870,000, just shy of their $900,000 goal. Johnson, also the Executive Director of St. Clair County Community Mental Health, praised the community’s efforts despite economic challenges. The funds will support local initiatives like emergency housing, food assistance, and child abuse prevention.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) is seeking public feedback on alleged violations at Smith’s Creek Landfill. Residents of Kimball Township have reported strong odors from the landfill causing headaches and nausea. EGLE issued seven violation notices between October of ’23 and July of ’24. The county has agreed to a $145,000 fine and will upgrade monitoring systems. A virtual public meeting is scheduled for May 29, with comments accepted until June 6.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet