Sarnia’s roughly 300 homeless residents face daily struggles, but nearby St. Thomas offers a proven approach. Since ’18, the city has built supportive housing that combines stable homes with on-site medical care, mental health services, and job support. The results: crime downtown fell 14%, drug complaints dropped 67%, and police calls for “unwanted persons” went down 44%. Indwell, the charity running the housing, notes residents gain hope and dignity. A similar effort in Sarnia could house most of the city’s homeless population.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Sarnia Police have arrested 31-year-old Caleb Moore after a suspicious fire on Echo Road last month. Firefighters responded around 7 a.m. on August 20th after an off-duty officer spotted flames in the home’s garage. Investigators found a large buildup of natural gas and evidence the gas line was tampered with, with candles placed to ignite it. Moore, the homeowner, faces multiple charges including arson and dangerous operation of a vehicle. He remains in custody.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

St. Clair County law enforcement made a major push against illegal drugs last week, arresting three people in separate raids. Deputies seized meth and drug paraphernalia in Clyde Township, arresting 73-year-old John Ross. In Wales Township, officers found meth, packaging materials, scales, and ammunition, leading to the arrests of 64-year-old John Fiks and 56-year-old Theresa Vanerp. All three now face multiple felony charges, including possession, maintaining drug houses, and tampering with evidence. Authorities say the effort targets not just drugs, but the people distributing.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Marysville residents can try improv for free this Wednesday at The Venue 1112. Healthy Entertainment.net is hosting a 7 p.m. class featuring short, fun improv games that boost mental and emotional health. Host Frank S. Bublitz, a veteran performer and teacher, will guide demonstrations, give prizes, and offer vouchers for future classes. Studies show improv helps with creativity, stress relief, and teamwork.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The Michigan Department of Agriculture has awarded more than $1.8 million in grants to 26 local farms and food organizations, including Stony Croft Farms in Lapeer County. The Mayfield Township farm received $44,413 to install new milling equipment, boosting local grain production and creating one full-time and one part-time job. Owned by Doug Hodge and spanning over 110 acres, Stony Croft Farms produces non-GMO flours and cornmeal, with plans to expand into barley, rye, einkorn, and oat flours to meet growing demand.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Five Tri-Hospital EMS workers were celebrated in Lansing for going above and beyond in emergency care. The “Stars of Life” awards honored 67 EMS members statewide, including seven from southeastern Michigan. Honorees from Tri-Hospital EMS included Kevin Shurkey of Port Huron, named Practitioner of the Year, Jason Heilig of Port Huron, Elizabeth Cremona of Cottrellville, Nicole Jackson of Algonac, and Patricia May of Marine City.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet