Kent County Community Action Newsletter - October 2026

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Quarterly Newsletter - October 2026

Dear Community Members, As fall settles across West Michigan, October brings an opportunity to focus on preparing our homes, supporting our neighbors, and raising awareness about important resources available throughout Kent County. This month, we are recognizing three important observances: Energy Awareness Month, National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week, and Weatherization Day. Each serves as a reminder of the small steps we can take - and the resources available - to help create safer, healthier, and more energy-efficient homes for our residents. Energy Awareness Month encourages us to think about how everyday choices can make a difference. Simple actions like switching to energy-efficient lighting, sealing drafts, and using appliances more efficiently can help reduce energy costs and create lasting savings throughout the year. National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week (October 25 - 31) highlights the importance of protecting families, particularly young children, from the dangers of lead exposure. Homes built before 1978 may contain lead-based paint hazards, and we remain committed to helping eligible Kent County residents identify and address these risks. Weatherization Day (October 30) is an opportunity to recognize the importance of improving home comfort, safety, and energy efficiency. For more than 50 years, we have provided weatherization services in Kent County, helping residents reduce energy costs, improve their living conditions, and preserve their homes for years to come. We also look forward to recognizing these important initiatives and our community partnerships that help make this work possible at our upcoming Fall Luncheon, Happy Homes, Happy Hearts, sponsored by Consumers Energy. We encourage you to visit our website to learn more. As we move further into the fall season, I want to thank our employees, partners, and community members for their continued dedication to the individuals and families we serve. Together, we can continue building a stronger, healthier, and more connected Kent County - one home, one family, and one neighbor at a time. Sincerely, Gustavo Perez, Kent County Community Action Director

Protecting Kent County Homes from Lead-Based Paint Hazards

National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week (October 25 - 31) is an important reminder of the risks associated with lead exposure and the steps families can take to create safer living environments.

Homes built before 1978 may contain lead-based paint, which can pose health risks when it deteriorates or creates lead-contaminated dust. Identifying and addressing these hazards is an important step toward protecting families, particularly young children.

Through our Kent County Lead Evaluation and Reduction Program (KCLEAR), we help approximately 60 homeowners each year identify and address lead-based paint hazards in homes located outside the City of Grand Rapids.

Participating homeowners receive a FREE Lead Inspection Risk Assessment Report that includes detailed test results and recommendations to address identified hazards. Income-eligible households may also qualify for grants and/or interest-free loans to help cover the cost of reducing lead-based paint hazards.

Who Is Eligible?

To qualify for the program, homeowners must meet the following requirements:

• Reside in Kent County, outside the City of Grand Rapids
• Own and occupy their home
• Live in a home built before 1978

Understanding the Program

KCLEAR focuses specifically on identifying and reducing lead-based paint hazards in the home. The program does not address lead in drinking water or plumbing, nor does it provide medical testing or treatment.

For questions about lead exposure, blood lead testing, or related health concerns, residents should contact the Kent County Health Department.

Learn More About KCLEAR

Interested in learning more about the program and available assistance? Visit the Kent County Home Repair website for additional information.

A safer home starts with awareness. By identifying and addressing lead-based paint hazards, we can help create healthier living environments for Kent County families.

Helping Kent County Residents Save Energy and Stay Comfortable

Weatherization Day (October 30) highlights the importance of making our homes more energy-efficient, comfortable and affordable throughout Michigan's changing seasons. With rising energy costs and unpredictable weather, we're here to help Kent County residents make improvements that can lead to lasting savings and greater comfort year-round.

Through the Kent County Weatherization Assistance Program (K-WAP), approximately 100 lower-income households receive assistance each year to improve their homes' energy efficiency and help reduce utility costs. The program may also provide important health and safety improvements, helping create safer, more comfortable living environments for residents.

What Improvements May Be Available?

Depending on the home's needs and program requirements, weatherization services may include:

• Air sealing to reduce drafts
• Attic and wall insulation
• Furnace repair or replacement
• Water heater repair or replacement
• Refrigerator replacement
• Energy-efficient lighting
• Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
• Ventilation and moisture control
• Additional energy-saving improvements, as appropriate

Please note: Window replacements are not commonly included unless windows are broken or missing.

Who Is Eligible?

To qualify for the program, applicants must:

• Reside in Kent County
• Own or rent their home
• Have an annual household income at or below 200% of the federal poverty level

Important Things to Know

Weatherization is a multi-step process that can take several months to complete. Unlike emergency home repair programs, K-WAP focuses on long-term improvements that help make homes more energy efficient, comfortable, and sustainable. The program does not provide emergency or urgent home repairs.

Small improvements can make a lasting difference - helping Kent County households save energy, reduce costs, and enjoy greater comfort year-round.

Helping Kent County Homeowners Maintain Safe and Healthy Homes

A safe, well-maintained home is essential to the health and well-being of individuals and families. Through our Home Repair Assistance Programs, we help approximately 120 homeowners each year address critical repairs that improve the safety, accessibility, and overall condition of their homes.

The programs focus on essential home improvements, including repairs related to health and safety concerns, accessibility needs, building code violations, and critical home systems. These improvements help income-eligible homeowners maintain safe, livable housing while preserving their homes for years to come.

How the Programs Make a Difference

We work in partnership with Home Repair Services of Kent County, which assists approximately 100 homeowners annually with minor home repairs. In addition, our staff works directly with approximately 20 homeowners each year on larger repair projects that address more extensive housing needs.

Together, these efforts help homeowners maintain their properties, address important safety concerns, and continue living in their homes.

Who Is Eligible?

The programs serve homeowners who meet the following general requirements:

• Own and occupy their home as their primary residence

• Live in Kent County, outside the City of Grand Rapids

• Have a household income at or below 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI)

• Need repairs related to health, safety, accessibility, code compliance, or essential home systems

Supporting Stronger Homes and Communities

Through these essential home repairs, we're working alongside our community partners to preserve existing housing, improve living conditions, and help Kent County residents maintain safe, comfortable homes for years to come.

Learn more about the programs and their impact by visiting the Kent County Home Repair Assistance Programs website.

Celebrating Community Partnerships at Our Sold-Out Happy Homes, Happy Hearts Luncheon

A safe, comfortable home can make a lasting difference in the lives of individuals and families. This October, we're bringing community members and partners together to celebrate the people and programs helping make that possible throughout Kent County. On Wednesday, October 28, we're hosting our sold-out Fall Luncheon, Happy Homes, Happy Hearts, sponsored by Consumers Energy! The event will shine a spotlight on our home repair programs and the important role they play in helping eligible homeowners address health, safety, and housing needs. A highlight of the luncheon will be the recognition of R & R Heating and Cooling, a valued community partner that has completed more than $1.2 million in projects through our programs over the past five years. Their contributions demonstrate the essential role local contractors play in helping residents maintain safe, livable homes. The event will also raise awareness of our services, highlight opportunities for additional contractors to get involved, and support fundraising efforts that help sustain this important work. Taking place during Energy Awareness Month and National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week, the luncheon provides a timely opportunity to showcase the impact of home repair and housing improvement services across Kent County. We're looking forward to an afternoon of connection, appreciation, and celebration as we recognize the people and partnerships helping create safer, healthier homes for our neighbors!

Gustavo Perez Recognized Among West Michigan's 25 Most Influential Latinos!

Congratulations to our Director, Gustavo Perez, who was recently named one of West Michigan's 25 Most Influential Latinos of 2026 by Vive Michigan Magazine!

Upcoming Food Distribution Volunteer Opportunities

• October 16, 8-10am, 10am-12pm, 12-2:30pm - Kent County Community Action Office - 121 Martin Luther King Jr. St. (Outside)
• November 3, 8am-1pm - KCCA Warehouse - 5899 Comstock Park Dr. (Inside)
• November 6, 8am-1pm - KCCA Warehouse - 5899 Comstock Park Dr. (Inside)
• November 13, 8am-1pm - KCCA Warehouse - 5899 Comstock Park Dr. (Inside)
• November 20, 8-10am, 10am-12pm, 12-2:30pm - Kent County Community Action Office - 121 Martin Luther King Jr. St. (Outside)
• December 1, 8am-1pm - KCCA Warehouse - 5899 Comstock Park Dr. (Inside)
• December 4, 8am-1pm - KCCA Warehouse - 5899 Comstock Park Dr. (Inside)
• December 11, 8am-1pm - KCCA Warehouse - 5899 Comstock Park Dr. (Inside)
• December 18, 8-10am, 10am-12pm, 12-2:30pm - Kent County Community Action Office - 121 Martin Luther King Jr. St. (Outside)

To view volunteer shifts for any of these dates and to sign up, visit here. We hope you will volunteer for this opportunity and help our community members, one meal at a time.

Coming Together to Support Local Veterans

We recently joined Kent County Veterans Services for its annual Homeless Veteran Stand Down at Millennium Park. This event brought together nearly 170 local veterans experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness.

Throughout the event, veterans received free food, clothing, hygiene kits, and haircuts, and connected with valuable resources, community organizations, and fellow veterans. We were proud to participate, distributing more than 100 boxes of food and sharing information about our programs and services at our resource table.

Events like this are a wonderful reminder of what we can accomplish when community partners come together with a shared purpose. We're grateful for the opportunity to support local veterans, connect them with helpful resources, and show our appreciation for those who have served our country.

Save the Date: Walk for Warmth Returns February 27, 2027!

Mark your calendars! Walk for Warmth, our annual community event, returns on Saturday, February 27, 2027! Join us as we bring neighbors, community partners, and supporters together to raise awareness, lend a helping hand, and make a meaningful difference for Kent County residents in need.

Walk for Warmth is more than just a walk - it's an opportunity to raise awareness of the challenges facing individuals and families in our community, highlight the important work we are doing to address those needs, and raise funds to support programs and services that help our neighbors.

Whether you're a longtime supporter or interested in getting involved for the first time, we invite you to save the date and join us in making a positive impact!

Stay tuned for more details about the event, including opportunities to participate and support this important cause.

In the meantime, visit our Walk for Warmth website to learn more.

Celebrating Connections and Community at El Centro Explora

There's been plenty to celebrate at El Centro Explora! Offered through our Senior Services Program, this free enrichment program connects older adults with cultural, educational, recreational, and wellness experiences throughout West Michigan. Recently, El Centro hosted its annual Senior Prom, bringing a little Havana flair to the celebration with a festive Havana Nights theme! Guests enjoyed live music, a delicious meal prepared from scratch by the on-site chef, and plenty of opportunities to connect and celebrate. The festivities even included the crowning of two El Centro regulars as Prom King and Prom Queen! And the fun isn't over yet! El Centro has more celebrations planned as the holiday season approaches. On Friday, November 20, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., the program will host a special Thanksgiving dinner featuring Puerto Rican-style turkey (pavochón), mashed plantains, and vegetables. The celebrations will continue on Friday, December 18, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., with a Christmas Party featuring live band music and an opportunity to enjoy the holiday season together. For more than 20 years, El Centro has been a welcoming place for older adults to gather, build friendships, and enjoy meaningful experiences. Events like these are a wonderful reminder of the connections and sense of community that make the program so special. El Centro Explora is open Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., with a hot, made-from-scratch lunch served daily at 11:45 a.m. Interested in learning more? Visit the El Centro Explora website for additional information.

We Want To Hear From You!

We welcome your input and ideas on topics you would like us to cover. Please send us any suggestions or questions to KCCAinfo@kentcountymi.gov.