(Ionia, MI) – This November, EightCAP, Inc. joins community partners across Gratiot, Ionia, Isabella, Montcalm, and Shiawassee Counties to recognize Homeless Awareness Month and shine a light on the continuing reality of housing insecurity in rural Michigan.
Collaborating agencies including Gratiot County Hope House, Have Mercy Shelter (Greenville), Relief After Violent Encounter (RAVE) Domestic and Sexual Violence Services, SafeCenter Domestic and Sexual Violence Services, R.I.S.E Advocacy, Inc. and Isabella County Restoration House; work daily to provide safe shelter, meals, and case management to individuals and families who have nowhere else to turn.
While homelessness often looks different in rural communities, it remains a serious and persistent issue. Families may double up with friends, live in campers or cars, or move frequently between temporary spaces; conditions that make it difficult for children to attend school and for adults to maintain employment.
According to the Michigan Campaign to End Homelessness, nearly 33,200 Michiganders experienced homelessness in 2023 — a slight increase from 2022 — and early 2024 reports show that need has remained steady statewide. Within the Michigan Balance of State Continuum of Care, which includes EightCAP’s five-county region, the most recent Point-in-Time count (2024) recorded 1,937 people experiencing homelessness across largely rural areas of the state.
“The face of homelessness isn’t always what people imagine. It’s families, seniors, and young people trying to get back on their feet,” said Dee Obrecht, Executive Director of Isabella County Restoration House. “When communities come together to show compassion and support, real change can happen.”
Housing affordability continues to be a key driver. In Ionia and Montcalm Counties, over 23 percent of children live in poverty; Isabella County’s rate remains above 30 percent, and neighboring Shiawassee and Gratiot Counties face similar challenges. For many families, one unexpected expense—a car repair, medical bill, or job loss—can lead to housing loss.
Domestic Violence and Homelessness
For survivors of domestic and sexual violence, the connection to homelessness is especially strong. State data show that intimate-partner violence and sexual assault are among the leading causes of homelessness for women and children, and national studies estimate that between 22 and 57 percent of women and children who become homeless do so as a direct result of domestic violence. Safe housing is essential to safety and healing—yet many survivors face long waitlists or limited options once they leave an abusive environment.
“In these critical times, access to basic needs such as food, housing, and safety is of the utmost importance, said Hannah L. Gottschalk, Chief Executive Officer, SafeCenter Domestic and Sexual Violence Services, Clinton and Shiawassee Counties. A community working together can make a world of difference for those facing such insecurities.”
Throughout November, local organizations are hosting awareness events, donation drives, and volunteer opportunities to highlight solutions and strengthen support networks. Community members are encouraged to:
- Donate warm clothing, hygiene items, or household goods
- Volunteer at local shelters or outreach programs
- Learn and share information about housing initiatives and survivor supports
“The strength of a community is measured by how we care for those most in need,” said Lori Johnson, President of EightCAP, Inc. “By working together, we can ensure every person has access to safe shelter and the opportunity to thrive.”
If you or someone you know is experiencing homelessness or at risk of losing housing, please visit www.gimishelter.org for local support links, or connect with the Michigan Coalition Against Homelessness via www.mihomeless.org.
EightCAP, inc. is a Community Action Agency serving Gratiot, Ionia, Isabella and Montcalm Counties. We improve our community by delivering programs that alleviate the causes of poverty and its effects, allowing individuals to become self-sufficient.
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