Inductee Ceremony For The Stanley Legacy Wall At Port Huron Museums

The Legacy Wall, located in the Port Huron Museums’ Carnegie Center, features heroes of the community who have made contributions in various areas, including education, civil/public service, business, athletics, science/healthcare, entertainment, literature, and media. 

As part of a yearly tradition, a committee of local community members will choose new inductees to have their names added to the wall. 

The ceremony will take place at the museum on Saturday, May 20th, from 11:30am – 1:30pm, and will be open to the public, with admission by donation. However, due to limited space, reservations are required.

The exhibit also features artifacts and memorabilia from the Stanley family’s personal collection, showcasing their contributions to the Port Huron area. The “From Whence We Came” exhibit is open to the public and is a must-visit for those who want to learn about the city’s rich history and the individuals who have helped shape it.

For ticket information, visit: phmuseum.org.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Scholarship Funds Available From The Community Foundation Of St. Clair County

The Community Foundation of St. Clair County has announced that there are still a limited number of scholarship funds available for the upcoming 2023/24 academic year. The Foundation encourages interested applicants to apply for the scholarships as soon as possible, as available funds will vary throughout the year.

The scholarship selection process will take place several times a year, with the Summer Selection Deadline set for July 31st, and the Fall Selection Deadline for September 30th. There are a variety of scholarships available, including the Alexander & Celestine Lamere Fund, the Blue Water Shipmaster’s Fund, and the Douglas & Elda Webb Scholarship.

Applicants must meet certain criteria, including a minimum GPA, residency, and attendance at specific schools. The first round of scholarship review will occur in the summer, with a second round held in the fall if funds remain. 

For more information, contact Heather Hayek at (810) 984-4761 or email: heather@stclairfoundation.org.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Mental Health Resources Available Through MDHHS

Governor Gretchen Whitmer and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) have recognized May as Mental Health Awareness Month. The initiative has been observed nationally since 1949 and aims to promote mental health education and support to increase individual well-being and decrease the stigma often associated with seeking help for mental illness.

MDHHS has invested in initiatives that support mental health and well-being by expanding access and eligibility to programs that provide care. 

The department has developed a new Bureau of Children’s Coordinated Health Policy and Supports, which has issued $6 million in grants for community mental health service programs to explore innovative ways to support children and families in crisis. Additionally, the bureau is overseeing efforts to improve behavioral health supports for youth and families with involvement in the child welfare system.

MDHHS has implemented three statewide lines, including the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, Michigan Peer Warmline, and Frontline Strong Together Crisis Line. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Supporting The YMCA Helps Support Our Children

The YMCA is making a difference in the Blue Water Area by offering programs that aim to create a better future for children and teenagers. 

The Y’s programs promote positive behaviors and values, support child development, and encourage children to explore their talents and interests. Their licensed child care and early learning programs prioritize early brain development and provide a safe and healthy environment for children to learn foundational skills, develop trusting relationships, and build self-reliance through values like caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.

The Y also offers opportunities for children to stay active and develop healthy habits through swim, sports, and play programs that promote good sportsmanship and teamwork, building the whole child from the inside out.

In addition to these programs, the Y provides a range of camp options that allow children to discover new talents, explore nature, gain independence, and create lasting friendships. 

If you would like to support the many programs the Blue Water Area YMCA offers, visit: bluewaterareaymca.com.

Michigan $10,000 Down Payment Assistance Program Expanded

The Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) has announced an expansion of its MI 10K DPA program to help low and middle-income homebuyers purchase homes. The program, which provides down payment assistance to eligible homebuyers, was previously offered exclusively to 236 zip codes, but will now be available statewide.

Housing affordability is a major issue in Michigan, with 48% of renters and 18% of homeowners paying more than 30% of their income on housing. By expanding the MI 10K DPA program, the MSHDA hopes to make homeownership more accessible for Michigan residents.

To qualify for the MI 10K DPA program, borrowers must complete a Homebuyer Education class and have no more than $20,000 in liquid cash assets. Restrictions and income limits also apply. Reservations made prior to the expansion for the $7,500 DPA program will remain in effect. 

For more information, visit: Michigan.gov/homeownership.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell