Frequently Asked Questions
We serve individuals in Eaton and Clinton Counties who are in a court ordered eviction, are homeless, or are at risk of becoming homeless. If this sounds like someone you know, encourage them to call our office today to discuss their situation with a case manager.
Our homeownership programs have different guidelines than our homelessness programs. If you are looking to purchase a home, need to complete MSHDA Homebuyer Education, or are at risk of falling behind on your mortgage, we likely have a program for you. Call our office to talk to a housing counselor.
Please call our office in your county. One of our case managers will talk to you about your situation and schedule an appointment if you qualify.
Document requirements vary by program.
Homeless and Eviction Prevention appointments
- Proof of income for the last 30 days (paycheck stubs, award letter, or bank statement showing direct deposits)
- Proof of emergency (court judgment, homeless shelter verification, letter from people you are staying with)
- Photo ID for everyone over 18 in your household
- Social Security cards for everyone
- SER Decision Notice
- Information about monthly expenses (food, utilities, gas, etc.)
Foreclosure appointments:
- Proof of income for the last 30 days (paystubs, award letter, etc.)
- Bank statement for the last 30 days
- Budget documents (utility bills, etc.)
- Most recent mortgage statement
- Any communication from the mortgage company or attorneys for the mortgage company
- Property Tax bill (if applicable)
Additionally, all of our intake information is available on the "Intake Information" page of our website.
We are funded through a combination of federal and state grants, local foundation grants, and donations. Because grants are always changing, donations help us provide consistent services despite gaps in grant funding. If you'd like to ensure housing programs go uninterrupted, please consider donating today.
We try to keep an eye on available rentals and compile several housing guides for the community. Our Weekly Guides are a good place to start if you are looking for an immediate openings in either Eaton or Clinton counties. We also put together Apartment Guides each year of all of the apartment complexes we know about. If you are looking for subsidized or income based housing check out our Subsidized Housing Guides for contact information.
You'd be surprised. Lots of people assume that homelessness is a problem that only impacts big cities, but communities like those throughout Eaton and Clinton counties also see high numbers of homelessness and housing instability. Homelessness in rural areas can be almost invisible due to individuals living doubled up with friends or family, this is also referred to as couch homelessness. In addition, in more rural settings, homeless individuals may be staying outdoors in parks, wooded areas or other secluded places.
We're glad you asked! There are so many ways to help support our mission.
- Donate
- Financial contributions from the community help us provide consistent services despite constant fluctuations in federal and state funding.
- Shop using Amazon Smile
- If you already shop on Amazon, switch to Amazon Smile and choose Housing Services Mid Michigan as your charity of choice. You get the same great products at the same price, and Amazon donates a portion of each purchase to us.
- Purchase items from our Amazon Wish List
- Our Extended Services Program works with people who have recently transitioned from homelessness into permanent housing. The program provides resources and case management to maintain stability and work on individual goals. Our Amazon Wish List allows you to purchase items and have them shipped directly to our office. Plus, if you're using Amazon Smile a portion of your purchase supports ALL of our programs.
- Attend one of our fundraising events
- Housing Services partners with local restaurants and other businesses throughout the year to organize fundraisers. These events are a fun, low-key way to get involved. Grab dinner, learn about our mission, and a portion of the proceeds help stop homelessness. The best way to find out about these events is by following us on Facebook!
- Organize a fundraising event
- Get your friends or family together and support housing stability in your community. If you'd like to host your next birthday party or other celebration in our honor please call our office at (517) 541-1180.
- Volunteer
- Help out at our office or at an event, we're always happy to have you.
- Advocate
- Talking about local housing instability helps change the perception of homelessness as a problem only in "other places" and helps get the word out about our services. Share our Facebook posts, tell a friend- word of mouth makes a huge difference.
Maybe. If you've recently cleaned out your house and have smaller household items, we likely are able to take them. Unfortunately, we are unable to accommodate large furniture or clothing donations. The Eaton Clothing and Furniture Center does typically take these items. You can reach them at (517) 543-4334