As the number of people in Michigan infected with the coronavirus continues to escalate, we can take some measure of comfort in knowing that help is available during this time for the most needy and vulnerable among us.
Through federal funds allocated to the state of Michigan:
- School breakfast and lunch programs can still provide meals and snacks to children throughout the state even though they are not currently attending school.
- MIChild continues to administer health care programs to the low-income, uninsured children of Michigan’s working families.
- Health care centers in underserved rural and urban communities continue to provide primary health care services, regardless of the ability to pay.
- The Child Care and Development Fund continues to provide financial assistance for childcare, so parents may continue to work.
- Special programs for the aging continue to provide nutritious meals to our older adults who cannot leave their homes.
While programs such as these are particularly important during the coronavirus pandemic, we must make sure we have them in the future. You can do your part in this effort by completing the 2020 Census.
Federal funds are allocated to every state, based on data from the census, which occurs every 10 years. In addition to the five programs listed above, other federally funded programs include Medicaid, highway construction and planning, Title I and Special Education Grants, Foster Care and Child Care Grants, K-12 education, Section 8 Vouchers and Head Start/Early Start. Our state has received billions in federal funding for these programs since the 2010 Census.
At this point, it’s impossible to say how long the coronavirus will be with us. Once it’s gone however, Michiganders will still need access to critical and preventative medical care and financial assistance.
When she announced her “stay home, stay safe” executive order in March, Governor Whitmer said:
“We’re working to prepare for the long-term economic challenges of this crisis. They will be immense. From unemployment to helping our businesses get back up on their feet. Coming back will take time, and it won’t be easy. We’re working with the business community to help Michigan businesses and employers weather this unprecedented crisis, and we will keep working around the clock to keep Michiganders safe.”
This is the time to come together as Michiganders and do your part for your family, friends and neighbors. You can fill out the 2020 Census today. Visit 2020census.gov to fill it out online. You also have the option of completing the questionnaire by phone. To begin, call 844-330-2020, or find the number associated with your preferred language here. Phone lines are open every day from 7 AM to 2 AM.
When everyone counts, everyone wins!