Extreme Heat Across Michigan: Stay Safe, Stay Cool, Stay Connected

As dangerously high temperatures and humidity grip much of Michigan this week, families across our state are facing more than just discomfort, they’re facing serious health risks. Heat index values are expected to approach or exceed 100°F in many communities, prompting Heat Advisories and increasing the risk of heat-related illness, especially for older adults, young children, people with chronic health conditions, and households without air conditioning.

Keep Your Home as Cool as Possible

Simple steps can make a noticeable difference:

• Close blinds and curtains during the hottest part of the day.

• Use fans to circulate air, but remember that fans alone may not prevent heat-related illness during extreme temperatures.

• Delay using ovens, dryers, and other heat-producing appliances until the evening.

• Turn off unnecessary lights and electronics.

• Stay hydrated by drinking water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty.

• If your home becomes too hot, spend several hours in an air-conditioned public building such as a library, recreation center, or designated cooling center.

Staying Safe Outdoors

If you must be outside:

• Limit strenuous activity between noon and 6 p.m.

• Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing.

• Take frequent breaks in the shade or air conditioning.

• Drink water regularly and avoid becoming dehydrated.

• Never leave children or pets in parked vehicles.

• Check on older neighbors, family members, and anyone living alone.

Cooling Centers Across Southeast Michigan

Many communities have opened cooling centers to help residents escape the dangerous heat.
Learn more information about these cooling center locations and times of operation.

THAW’s Utility Assistance Specialists are available to assist between the hours of 8:00am – 4:45pm Monday through Friday by calling or texting “THAW” to 1-800-866-THAW (8429)

Michigan Energy Assistance Program (MEAP)

This heating season we are proud to announce that more Michigan residents can now access MEAP funding. The Michigan Energy Assistance Program is currently available and provides assistance with an affordable monthly payment plan or a one-time direct payment for your energy bill. For more information on how to qualify and apply for energy bill payment assistance through the MEAP program please click the Get Help button.

MI Neighborhood 2.0

MI Neighborhood 2.0 (MIN) is one of our home repair programs, funded by MSHDA and provided by the Neighborhood Development Division. MIN is a part of the Statewide Housing Plan, which was created to help families maintain stability in their homes, one neighborhood at a time. For MIN 2.0 we will be assisting residents in Pontiac, MI in the Woodward Estates neighborhood with home repairs.

Residents of Pontiac, MI (Woodward Estates only) will need to complete a home repair application online on our application portal. Customers are approved on a first come first serve basis. Submitting your application is not an approval. Customer must have ALL required documents submitted to be approved. We will determine the repairs for the customers based on health and safety measures, as well as energy efficiency for the home. If customer repairs are over $9,999.00, a lien is required for that customer (Lien: can’t sale home for 5 years, or they will have to pay for repairs).

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be the homeowner

• Meet AMI income requirements (see attached chart)

• Complete MSHDA Household Income Self-Certification (5 pages total)

• THAW’s Customer Responsibility and Participation Form

• THAW’s Health Questionnaire

• Submit ID’s & SSN for all residents in the home

• Proof of all income for all adults (18+) in the home

• Proof of Homeownership (mortgage statement and/or deed)

• Proof of home insurance (full coverage)

• Proof of current property taxes

Click The Get Help button to apply