Michigan Department of Labor & Economic Growth Awards $330,206 to Blue Water Center for Independent Living in Port Huron

October 9, 2008 - The Michigan Department of Labor & Economic Growth (DLEG) today announced the awarding of $330,206 in grant funds to the Blue Water Center for Independent Living in Port Huron to serve people with disabilities. 

“We must invest in our citizens and their talents to meet the growing demands of Michigan's economy," said Governor Jennifer M. Granholm.  "These grants help those people with disabilities to be contributing members of our 21st century workforce."

The $330,206 in grants will help people with disabilities in Huron, Lapeer, St. Clair, Sanilac and Tuscola counties live more independently and gain successful employment by enabling Blue Water Center for Independent Living to maintain and expand the information and support it provides.

As a nonprofit community organization operated by and for people with disabilities, the Blue Water Center for Independent Living is one of 15 designated centers for independent living in Michigan.  Centers for Independent Living use federal and state grant funds to provide information and assistance, independent living skills, peer support, individual advocacy, and systems advocacy for people with disabilities.

In addition, the Blue Water Center for Independent living will use grant funds to promote collaboration in the provision of vocational rehabilitation services, advocate for employment-related needs of persons with disabilities in Michigan’s Thumb area, and provide transition services and supports for students and youth in St. Clair, Lapeer, and Sanilac counties.

In total, more than $5 million in federal and state funds are being awarded to 17 entities throughout the state that promote independent living.  The federal portion is funded under the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended.  The grants are issued by Michigan Rehabilitation Services (MRS), a bureau of DLEG that collaborates with agencies such as Blue Water Center for Independent Living in a mutual goal of helping Michigan residents with disabilities live more independently and enter the workforce.  MRS operates 36 offices throughout the state that provide job preparation and placement services for people with disabilities.

The Department of Labor & Economic Growth is investing in Michigan's future by helping to create the jobs of today and tomorrow, ensuring that our children and adults have the skills these jobs demand, making Michigan a better place to do business, and training and placing those who need jobs now.

For more information about DLEG, visit the department’s website at www.michigan.gov/dleg.  DLEG is an equal opportunity employer/program.

Michigan Department of Labor & Economic Growth
Michigan Rehabilitation Services
FY 2009 Independent Living Grants