One Resource Can Make a Difference for a Family—and an Entire School Community
Written by: Holly Makimaa, CPS, CTSS, Prevention Specialist, Eaton RESA
As colder weather approaches and the holiday season draws near, Michigan families are preparing for expenses that can put additional pressure on household budgets. Heating bills, housing, groceries, childcare, transportation, and health care already compete for limited dollars. Holiday meals, gatherings, travel, and gifts can add to those costs, while changes to SNAP food assistance requirements are creating additional challenges for some households.
These financial pressures extend well beyond families receiving public assistance. Nearly four in ten Michiganders struggle to afford basic needs, including many working households whose incomes are above the federal poverty line, according to research from the University of Michigan.[1]
But financial assistance is only one reason someone might need a community resource. A parent may be looking for free tutoring for their child, support for a young person who is vaping or using substances, or job training to pursue a new career. Someone navigating mental health challenges or substance use recovery may be looking for a support group or additional services, especially during a season that can bring added stress or isolation. A caregiver may need support, while another family might simply be looking for affordable activities to enjoy together.
That's where the Eaton RESA Tri-County Community Health Guide can help.
The online guide brings together an extensive collection of resources for residents of Eaton, Ingham, and Clinton counties. Designed for everyone, not just those seeking financial assistance, it connects individuals and families with programs and services that support everyday needs, personal well-being, and opportunities for growth.
Finding the right resource can make a difference beyond the immediate need it addresses. For families with school-age children, access to food, stable housing, technology, health care, and supportive relationships can help reduce barriers to learning. Even something as simple as affordable home internet can matter. Michigan State University research found that students without home internet access had lower grades, on average, than students with fast home internet connections.[2]
Imagine what one helpful connection might mean. A family finds affordable internet access so a student can complete assignments at home. Another discovers free tutoring to strengthen reading skills. A parent concerned about their child's vaping finds access to a free quitline and online programs to help them quit. A person in recovery connects with a support group during a difficult season. A child affected by a family member's substance use finds a supportive program. Or a family discovers free activities that offer opportunities to learn, connect, and spend meaningful time together.
Sometimes one connection can open the door to many others. When families can access resources that support their health, stability, and well-being, children may be better positioned to participate in school and take advantage of educational opportunities. Helping families find support is one way communities can contribute to stronger schools.
What's in the Guide?
The online guide includes resources related to:
- Food, nutrition, housing, and financial assistance
- Free or low-cost internet and computer access
- School tutoring, adult education, and employment support
- Free and low-cost family enrichment activities
- Parenting, childcare, and caregiver resources
- Health care and mental health services
- Youth vaping cessation resources, including free quitline and online support programs; substance use treatment and recovery; and family support groups
- Transportation, physical activity, and community programs
- Crisis assistance, safety, and other essential needs
The guide is available online now, making it easy to explore resources, find contact information, and share helpful connections with others. An updated printed edition is also coming soon.
As winter and the holiday season approach, having access to trustworthy information can help families meet immediate needs, discover new opportunities, and strengthen the connections that support children and communities.
You may not need a resource today, but you might know someone who does tomorrow.
Explore the Eaton RESA Tri-County Community Health Guide today and share it with someone who might benefit.
Sources
[1] University of Michigan, Poverty Solutions. (August 4, 2026). About 4 in 10 Michiganders struggle to afford basic needs, same as last year. https://poverty.umich.edu/news/2026/about-4-10-michiganders-struggle-afford-basic-needs-same-last-year
[2] Michigan State University, Quello Center. (2020). Broadband and Student Performance Gaps. https://quello.msu.edu/broadbandgap2020/
[3] Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. (2026). Work Requirements for Food Assistance. https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/assistance-programs/food/learn-more/work-requirements
[4] Eaton Regional Education Service Agency. Tri-County Community Health Guide. https://www.eatonresa.org/what-we-offer/prevention/tri-count-community-health-guide/
