$100,000 grant helps expand service delivery to support low-income and vulnerable Michiganders during COVID-19

Lansing, MI – CEDAM (Community Economic Development Association of Michigan) has received a $100,000 grant from the Consumers Energy Foundation supporting CEDAM’s financial empowerment and asset building programs. These programs create barrier-free access to resources and education to help low- to moderate-income (LMI) and vulnerable communities achieve financial security during COVID-19.

“CEDAM and their members support two critical programs that advance financial security: free tax preparation and Show Me the Money Day,” said Carolyn Bloodworth, secretary/treasurer of the Consumers Energy Foundation. “We are thrilled to support these programs and services that touch nearly every county in Michigan and ensure that LMI communities have access to financial resources and information during this difficult time.”

Increasing financial security during COVID-19 is CEDAM’s priority and will require expanding access to safe in-person or contactless services as well as connecting individuals with education and resources to lessen the negative economic impact of this virus. 

“CEDAM members have been a critical resource to Michigan families and individuals facing economic hardship during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Luke Forrest, executive director at CEDAM. “With the generous support of the Consumers Energy Foundation, we will be able to further support our members with additional resources and capacity to redevelop their service delivery to meet the needs of the communities they serve.” 

About CEDAM

CEDAM is a nonprofit membership association serving the community economic development industry in Michigan. Our programs, advocacy, and capacity building efforts advance economic opportunity and housing security for Michigan’s communities.  

About the Consumers Energy Foundation

The Consumers Energy Foundation is the charitable arm of Consumers Energy, Michigan’s largest energy provider. The Consumers Energy Foundation enables communities to thrive and grow by investing in what’s most important to Michigan – its people, our planet and Michigan’s prosperity. In 2019, the Consumers Energy Foundation, Consumers Energy and its employees and retirees contributed more than $11.5 million to Michigan nonprofits. For more information about the Consumers Energy Foundation, visit www.ConsumersEnergy.com/foundation. 

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