The Southwest Michigan Community Action Agency is marking its 40th year in southwest Michigan and its 58th year of service overall.
2022 marks the 58th year since the Community Action Network was established to help American families and communities overcome obstacles to poverty. Over 1000 agencies across the country are working every day to create opportunities and transform the lives of their neighbors making communities stronger and helping families across the US thrive. This year, Southwest Michigan Community Action Agency (SMCAA), a proud member of the Community Action Network, will also commemorate 40 years helping families throughout Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren Counties.
“Each May, during Community Action Month, we reflect on the impact SMCAA and our network has had on families,” said Kim Smith Oldham, Executive Director of SMCAA. “Last year alone, we served 4,995 unduplicated individuals in Southwest Michigan, and over 15 million across the country with immediately needed services such as shelter and food, and also long-term solutions like education and job placement.”
Community Action Agencies serve 99% of all American counties with life-changing services to help families achieve financial stability. All agencies are locally controlled and represented by the private, public, and low-income sectors of the community. “We are proud of our communities’ participation in the development and oversight of our programs,” said Smith Oldham. “Their engagement helps us to be more effective in our approach by determining what the vulnerable populations in Southwest Michigan need.”
Despite experiencing budget cuts, shrinking resources, and increased demands for services during these challenging economic times, SMCAA has been remarkably successful assisting the low-income families and individuals of Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren Counties to achieve and maintain economic security. As Smith Oldham attests, “Our staff is committed to the community we serve because it is right, it is wise, and, in our hearts and minds, we truly believe it is possible to conquer poverty. We are Community Action Strong.”
