We are thrilled to announce that Community Homeworks has received a historic $150,000 grant from the Consumers Energy Foundation to expand our Safe Start Home Repair Program—a critical initiative designed to serve families with expectant mothers or young children living in unsafe housing conditions. The grant is the second-largest non-governmental grant received in the organization’s history. It will enable the organization to over double the number of eligible young households served through this program.
This funding will allow the organization to support at least 30 additional households in Kalamazoo County with urgent repairs over the next year and a half. These families are often at risk of displacement or facing serious health and safety hazards in their homes. In some cases, this work can prevent families from being separated or losing their homes.
The Safe Start Program was developed to respond directly to the challenges facing young families in our community. Research shows that unsafe housing and maternal stress are major contributors to preterm births and infant injury or death. By reducing these risks, we help promote healthier outcomes for children and greater stability for their families.
“This grant will provide much-needed stability to local families, often when they have nowhere else to turn for help,” said Executive Director Chris Praedel. “Thanks to the support of the Consumers Energy Foundation, we will be able to respond faster and more flexibly to eligible families in crisis, ensuring they can stay safe in their homes.”
“We look forward to celebrating this investment at our Founders Day Celebration Luncheon later this year on Thursday, September 18, and we extend our deepest thanks to the Consumers Energy Foundation for their partnership and belief in our mission.”
“The dedication of Community Homeworks to provide access to safe and sustainable living conditions is crucial in preventing displacement and preserving homeownerships,” said Brandon Hofmeister, president of the Consumers Energy Foundation, in the announcement release. “We are grateful for the opportunity to partner with them to fund essential repairs and mitigate environmental hazards, helping to create a safer and healthier environment for families in need.”
Click here to view the full grant announcement on the Consumers Energy Foundation’s website.
The Consumers Energy Foundation is the charitable arm of Consumers Energy, Michigan’s largest energy provider. The Foundation contributes to the growth and strengthening of Michigan communities by investing in what’s most important — our people, our planet, and Michigan’s prosperity. In 2024, the Consumers Energy Foundation, CMS Energy Foundation, Consumers Energy, its employees, and retirees contributed more than $15 million in support of Michigan nonprofits and communities. For more information, visit consumersenergy.com/foundation
