Consumers Energy Foundation Awards $100,000 Grant to EightCAP
EightCAP has proudly received a $100,000 grant from the Consumers Energy Foundation. This funding was formally presented to the organization during a special event at its Administrative Building in Orleans. The grant is aimed at enhancing the Household Goods for Rehousing Success initiative.
Details of the Grant Presentation
The check presentation took place last week, with key figures in attendance. Lori Johnson, President of EightCAP, accepted the check from Cathy Wilson, Secretary and Treasurer of the Consumers Energy Foundation, and Rebecca O’Connell, Community Affairs Manager. This partnership highlights a collective effort to support families transitioning out of homelessness.
Household Goods for Rehousing Success Initiative
The grant supports EightCAP’s program, which provides essential Fresh Start Kits to families and individuals in Gratiot, Ionia, Isabella, and Montcalm counties. These kits contain household items that help ease the transition to stable living conditions.
- Fresh Start Kits include:
- Bedding
- Kitchen utensils
- Personal hygiene products
During the event, Consumers Energy volunteers assembled around 36 Fresh Start Kits. Their contributions, along with support from Volunteers in Action, emphasize a community effort in overcoming the challenges faced by newly housed residents.
Impact on Families
Since early November 2025, EightCAP has successfully distributed approximately 81 Fresh Start Kits. These have assisted 25 families in their transition out of homelessness, providing the necessary resources for stability.
Lori Johnson expressed gratitude for the partnership, stating, “This generous support from the Consumers Energy Foundation ensures that individuals and families aren’t starting from nothing.” Her words underscore the importance of dignity and stability for those beginning anew.
Consumers Energy Foundation’s Commitment
The Consumers Energy Foundation is dedicated to building strong communities. Cathy Wilson highlighted their focus on collaborative support for families in Mid-Michigan. The foundation aims to create pathways for long-term stability by addressing service barriers for those in need.
This initiative embodies the mission of both EightCAP and the Consumers Energy Foundation, ensuring families exiting homelessness have the essentials required to thrive.
Conclusion
The collaboration between EightCAP and the Consumers Energy Foundation serves as an example of community strength and commitment. Through the transformative impact of the $100,000 grant, families in need are given crucial support as they work towards a brighter future.
