October 2024: Weatherization Month

WHEREAS, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) Weatherization Assistance Program provides an economic boost for low-income individuals through lower energy costs and reduced arrearages; and,

WHEREAS, weatherization is a cost-effective investment of taxpayer dollars. For every $1 invested in the program, weatherization returns over $4 in energy, health, and safety benefits to the household and society; and,

WHEREAS, the MDHHS Weatherization Assistance Program, using federal, state, local, and private dollars benefits households and communities across the nation by providing cost-effective, energy-efficient retrofits to homes occupied by eligible, low-income Americans; and,

WHEREAS, weatherization reduces heating costs by 30% on average, saving families at least $283 per year. Therefore, household money is made available for other necessities such as groceries, medical bills, prescriptions, and other needs; and,

WHEREAS, households that have been weatherized experience health and safety benefits, improved air quality and receive smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors if they are not already present throughout the house; and,

WHEREAS, weatherization reduces residential and power plant emissions of carbon dioxide while also making low-income communities more resilient to the effects of climate change; and,

WHEREAS, weatherization is critical because it makes indoor environments healthier, safer, and more comfortable for medically vulnerable individuals; and,

WHEREAS, MDHHS Michigan Weatherization Assistance Program provides an economic boost for communities by providing employment opportunities as well as improved energy efficient housing stock and neighborhood conditions;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer governor of Michigan do hereby proclaim October 2024 as Weatherization Month in Michigan.