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MDHHS and MSHDA launch "Good Housing = Good Health" program

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) and the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) are announcing the official launch of the "Good Housing = Good Health" program, a partnership aimed at promoting housing stabilization and addressing social determinants of health (SDOH) within Michigan communities.

This innovative initiative is part of the MDHHS SDOH strategy within the Michigan's Roadmap to Healthy Communities, which provides comprehensive solutions to the social drivers of health by looking at factors like housing that impact the health of Michigan residents. The program also incorporates Michigan’s Statewide Housing Plan, which enhances the different factors contributing to housing access in Michigan.

“Housing affordability is a major problem for many families, as too many of our neighbors are spending a third of their income or more on housing their family,” said Elizabeth Hertel. “This new program is a critical part of our goal of keeping children safe and keeping families together, as we work collaboratively to make Michigan the safest and best place in America to raise kids and nurture families.”

Partnering with MSHDA, the MDHHS Policy and Planning Office has established the "Good Housing = Good Health" program to increase and promote housing stabilization resources and services across the state. Funding will be provided to local health partners to hire and retain community health workers (also known as navigators) who will proactively seek opportunities to connect Michigan residents to housing resources and services. This effort showcases the importance of collaborative partnerships in creating healthier and thriving communities.

“Creating thriving, healthy communities is a collaborative effort,” said Amy Hovey, executive director of MSHDA. “By partnering with MDHHS on the Good Housing = Good Health program we’re expanding essential services and creating more pathways to stable, safe housing for all Michiganders.”

Good Housing = Good Health offers a wide range of SDOH and housing services including housing stabilization, navigation and outreach services, referrals, emergency shelter diversion services, MI Bridges benefits assistance and other outreach services that will be administered by MDHHS in partnership with local health departments and community-based organizations.

Key objectives of the "Good Housing = Good Health" Program include:

  • Increasing housing access: The program will improve housing access for eligible households, particularly those that have been disproportionately impacted by COVID-19.
  • Providing education and resources: Educational resources and support will be provided to prevent the loss of housing, ensuring individuals and families have the tools needed to secure and maintain safe and affordable housing.
  • Strengthening health and well-being: The program aims to enhance the health and well-being of households facing the highest barriers to securing and maintaining safe, affordable housing.

By investing resources into housing access and stabilization services, the Good Housing = Good Health" Program aims to holistically serve individuals and families, improving quality of life and contributing to healthier, more resilient communities.

There are a total of 18 local health departments and one community-based organization participating, including:

  • Allegan County Health Department
  • Barry-Eaton Health Department
  • City of Detroit Health Department
  • Ingham County Health Department
  • Kent County Health Department
  • Northern Michigan Public Health Alliance
    • Benzie Leelanau
    • Central District Michigan
    • District Health Department #2
    • District Health Department #4
    • District Health Department #10
    • Grand Travers County Health Department
    • Health Department of NW Michigan
  • Muskegon County Health Department
  • Western Upper Peninsula Health Department
  • Thumb Alliance
    • Sanilac Health Department
    • Huron Health Department
    • Lapeer Health Department
    • Tuscola Health Department
  • Greater Flint Health Coalition

Community members can access resources and other information by connecting with these organizations.

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