Small Changes Could Make a Big Difference

    We've been keeping an eye on where the federal stimulus money is going in northern Michigan and how it will impact you.  So an announcement that the state will receive $243 million for weatherization caught our attention. 

     What is our share and how will it be used?

     Details in this Fact Finder Report.

The Northwest Michigan Community Action Agency covers ten counties: Roscommon, Wexford, Missaukee, Kalkaska, Grand Traverse, Benzie, Leelanau, Antrim, Charlevoix and Emmet.  It was just awarded a $6.1 million dollar three year contract for from federal stimulus dollars for weatherization.

Weatherization director Gary Yankee says, "we spend a great deal of time trying to tighten the house up."

At no cost to the homeowner, crews can do everything from repairing drafty windows and doors, to installing insulation.

Yankee says "they even notice in a day or 2 they don't hear the wind blowing at night and the house seems warmer."

And fixing a lot of little things can make a big difference a family's budget

The idea is by making the home less vulnerable to leaks, you'll use less energy and spend less money on energy bills.  

That's critical for those who benefit from the program. 

On average, the agency helps 130 low income seniors and families.  Some of those people are on a waiting list for two years.   

But with the federal stimulus money, the agency will be able to help an additional 300 home owners and renters each year. 

Yankee says, "we've never seen this kind of money come in one lump sum."

But even with the increase in funding, Yankee admits, the need also continues to increase.  More people will now be eligible.  The income threshold was just raised to 200% of the poverty level or an income of $21,000 or less for a single person.  

"you know, I don't know we'll ever be able to fully get rid of the waiting list"             

"so they'll still have to wait a little bit,  but I don't see them having to wait as long as they have in the past."

And hundreds of additional homeowners and renters aren't the only ones who will benefit.

"we hire private contractors, then the contractors are going to buy materials in the community they have crews working for them so there's payroll taxes and all the things that go with that.  It's more than just the clients benefitting.  The community is benefitting tremendously from this money." 

   Every state is receiving stimulus money for weatherization programs like this one.  And Michigan is actually in the top five.

   I've been telling you about the stimulus money as it starts coming into northern Michigan.   

   I'd like to know what you think about stimulus plan spending so far.  Is it hitting the mark?  do you think it will actually stimulate our economy?

    I want to hear from you.  Leave your comments below. 

     To learn more about the weatherization program click here.