Consumers Energy Foundation Awards $100,000 Grant to EightCAP: A Major Milestone in the Fight Against Homelessness
ORLEANS, MI — In a powerful display of corporate philanthropy and community partnership, the Consumers Energy Foundation has officially awarded a $100,000 grant to EightCAP, Inc., a prominent nonprofit dedicated to improving the lives of residents in Mid-Michigan.
The grant, announced during a formal check presentation at EightCAP’s Administrative Building in Orleans, is set to supercharge the organization’s efforts to transition families from homelessness into permanent, stable housing. This funding is specifically earmarked for the Household Goods for Rehousing Success initiative, a program that provides the physical foundation necessary for long-term stability.
Empowering the “Fresh Start Kits” Initiative
The core of the partnership focuses on the production and distribution of “Fresh Start Kits.” For many individuals and families transitioning out of homelessness, the challenge does not end once they receive a key to an apartment. Moving into a home with nothing but the clothes on one’s back can be a daunting and dehumanizing experience.
The Household Goods for Rehousing Success initiative ensures that no family starts from zero. Each kit is meticulously curated to include essential household items that most take for granted, such as:
- Bedding and linens
- Kitchenware and cooking utensils
- Cleaning supplies
- Basic toiletries and hygiene products
By providing these necessities, EightCAP helps new residents establish a sense of dignity and security immediately upon move-in, which has been statistically shown to increase the success rate of permanent rehousing.
Impact Across Mid-Michigan: Four Counties Served
The reach of this $100,000 grant is extensive, targeting a four-county region in Mid-Michigan that has seen a growing need for housing support services. The communities benefiting from this influx of capital include:
- Gratiot County
- Ionia County
- Isabella County
- Montcalm County
Since the program’s inception in November 2025, EightCAP has already distributed approximately 81 Fresh Start Kits to 25 different families and individuals. With the new Consumers Energy Foundation funding, EightCAP expects to significantly scale these numbers, reaching hundreds more over the next fiscal year.
A Day of Service: Volunteers in Action
The grant announcement was more than just a financial transaction; it was a day of hands-on community service. Following the check presentation to EightCAP President Lori Johnson, representatives and volunteers from Consumers Energy went to work.
Joined by members of Volunteers in Action, a local partner group, the team assembled 36 Fresh Start Kits on-site. This collaborative effort highlighted the “People Award” philosophy of the Consumers Energy Foundation—believing that financial support must be paired with human connection to create lasting change.
Rebecca O’Connell, Community Affairs Manager for Consumers Energy, and Cathy Wilson, the Foundation’s Secretary and Treasurer, were both present to witness the immediate impact of their organization’s contribution.
“Partnering with EightCAP reflects our shared commitment to helping families in Mid-Michigan find housing and create homes where they can thrive,” said Cathy Wilson. “We believe that strong communities emerge from collective support.”
Restoring Dignity to the Housing Process
For EightCAP, the grant represents a validation of their holistic approach to poverty. Lori Johnson emphasized that while a roof over a head is the primary goal, the quality of life within those four walls determines whether a person remains housed.
“This generous support ensures that families aren’t starting from nothing,” Johnson stated. “These Fresh Start Kits help restore dignity and make a house feel like home. It’s about more than just supplies; it’s about letting our neighbors know that their community cares about their success.”
Fast Facts: The EightCAP Grant
| Detail | Information |
| Grantor | Consumers Energy Foundation |
| Recipient | EightCAP, Inc. |
| Amount | $100,000 |
| Primary Goal | Combatting Homelessness via Rehousing |
| Key Program | Fresh Start Kits |
| Region | Gratiot, Ionia, Isabella, Montcalm |
