Michigan Homeowner Assistance Fund Reaches Application Limit, Deadline Imminent

The Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) has declared an imminent closure for applications through the Michigan Homeowner Assistance Fund (MIHAF) program due to an overwhelming surge in submissions. The MIHAF online portal is set to halt new applications on Friday, December 8th, at midnight.

Prompted by homeowner-related delinquencies resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, Michiganders are urged to swiftly apply for potential aid. Applications submitted before the deadline will be processed until funds are exhausted, with updates available through the application portal.

Launched in February 2022, the MIHAF program has been a pivotal support system, disbursing over $200 million statewide, benefiting more than 26,000 households with an average of $7,600 per recipient. 

For more information, call MIHAF customer service at: 1(844) 756-4423 or by emailing MSHDA-HO-HAF-Program@michigan.gov.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan Black Leadership Advisory Council Champion Legislation To Cap Payday Loan Interest Rates

Members of the Black Leadership Advisory Council (BLAC) have put their support behind Michigan State Sen. Sarah Anthony and State Rep. Abraham Aiyash for their proposal of Senate Bill 632. The bill aims to cap the interest rate on payday loans at a maximum of 36 percent annual percentage rate (APR), in alignment with BLAC’s 2022 policy report to Governor Whitmer.

BLAC’s recommendation highlights the disproportionate targeting of Black communities by payday lenders, where loans can amass interest rates exceeding 300% APR. The lack of a cooling-off period between loans in Michigan prompts consumers to frequently renew loans, as per data from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB).

The advocacy emphasizes the prevalence of payday lending operations in communities of color, with areas with significant African American populations hosting more payday lenders per capita. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

New Century Art Gallery Awarded $25,000 In Backing Small Businesses Enhancement Grant Program

Main Street America and American Express revealed the recipients of the Backing Small Businesses Enhancement Grant Program on Wednesday, November 1st, with New Century Art Gallery in Marine City emerging as one of the winners. 

The $25,000 grant aims to bolster small businesses, and Jeanne Burris Johnson, expressing gratitude, outlined plans to expand classes, community programs, and collaborations in the St. Clair County area.

Twenty-five small business owners nationwide, including New Century Art Gallery, were awarded these grants, totaling $625,000. With this announcement, the program’s contributions in 2023 reach over $2.3 million, supporting 680 small businesses. 

Launched in 2021 to aid post-pandemic recovery, the Backing Small Businesses Enhancement Grant Program exemplifies American Express’ commitment to empowering independent business owners through various initiatives, including the Coalition to Back Black Businesses and Backing Historic Small Restaurants.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan Department Of Health And Human Services Expands Vehicle Purchase Assistance Program To $4000

In a bid to enhance accessibility for residents in need, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) has raised the ceiling for its Direct Supportive Services (DSS) for Vehicle Purchase Assistance to $4,000. 

The updated criteria outline the eligibility requirements for individuals seeking financial aid for a vehicle, emphasizing the importance of prior approval from MDHHS, limited to one vehicle purchase per lifetime. Applicants must be recipients of specific MDHHS benefits, possess a valid Michigan driver’s license, and demonstrate the necessity for private transportation due to a lack of reliable public options.

This expansion aims to empower individuals to secure reliable transportation, particularly those engaged in employment or self-employment, reinforcing the state’s commitment to fostering self-sufficiency among its residents. 

For more information, contact your local DHS specialist.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Genomic Studies On European Ancestry Questioned: NHGRI Researchers Reveal Flaws In Previous Findings

In a groundbreaking revelation, researchers from the National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI) have challenged the accuracy of previous genomic studies on individuals with European ancestry. 

The study, published in Nature Communications, highlights the oversight of treating Europeans as a genetically homogenous group in large-scale studies. By acknowledging mixed genetic lineages, known as admixture, the NHGRI team discovered that inferred connections between a genomic variant influencing lactose digestion and traits like height and cholesterol levels may be invalid.

Lead author Daniel Shriner, Ph.D., emphasizes the need to reevaluate prior genome-wide association studies, urging researchers to account for admixture in their analyses. The findings underscore the intricate genetic diversity within European populations, prompting a more nuanced approach to deciphering the links between genomic variants and traits.

For more information, visit: genome.gov.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell