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Arc of Bay County Winter Bulletin
Happy New Year!
As we reflect on the year, we are filled with gratitude and joy our Christmas Celebration held on December 5, 2025 was a memorable occasion, with over 150 people coming together to celebrate the season. The event was filled with music and dancing thanks to Nightlife Entertainment and DJ Jeff the dance and costume contests brought lots of laughter and excitement. Many of our attendees bravely took the stage for karaoke, creating moments we will be smiling about for a long me. Guests enjoyed a buffet that included ham generously donated by Michigan Brand, baked chicken, scalloped potatoes, green beans, coleslaw, and rolls. Sweet treats were plentiful as well, with Christmas cupcakes and delicious homemade cookies, and refreshing cranberry punch. We were especially happy to see so many of our folks participating in Marty’s crafty corner making beautiful holiday projects. We extend our appreciation to Bay Metro Transit Authority for providing rides and a heartfelt thank you to all of the staff, board members and volunteers whose hard work and generosity made the celebration a success. And of course, a BIG thank you to Santa for making a special appearance.
From the Desk of Karen Cramer, Your Rep Payee
It’s officially 2026 – Many who use the Arc’s Organizational Rep Payee service have been asking how much spending they will get. Social Security’s increase to Supplemental Security Income (SSI) was about $56, for many of you, as I updated your budget that went to cover your rent increase.
- The state rate for a person living in a licensed adult foster care home is now $1,151.50
a month. Don’t worry, even if you’re SSI doesn’t cover it, you s ll receive your monthly spending of $44 - If you live in subsidized public housing, like an apartment, duplex or house your rent will be adjusted
when it’s me for your annual review
Keep in mind that there are several ways for you to get your spending money, including:
- Transfer to your personal account at the Great Lakes Federal Credit Union which has location on Euclid
Avenue and also Washington Avenue - True Link Card, this special debit card can track your purchases; this comes with $5 per month fee
- Personal check made out to you either picked up at the office, or mailed to your home
We work hard to pay your basic need bills efficiently, please let us know if something changes in your life, if you’d like to review your budget, plan for a vacation, or large purchase, or if you have an emergency need. When you use our service, there’s value added, have you thought about a Mi Able savings account, or maybe you’d like peace of mind when you set up a prepaid funeral plan. Let us know how we can assist you in meeting your financial goals in 2026.
No SNAP November wrap up!
It started with a Facebook post when we learned the federal government shutdown would mean Bridge cards wouldn’t be funded. This is a benefit that many people served by the Arc rely on to purchase their groceries. For more than a month volunteers, donations, events, and publicity made the food drive a reality. When it was over, 200 individuals and families had been provided with shelf stable food items that carried them thru what had become the federal government’s longest shutdown to date. Thank you to everyone who thought about us, stopped by to help, donated or helped deliver. We couldn’t have done it without you!
New Grant-funded efforts
We kicked off the New Year with two new efforts thanks to Bay Area Community Foundation and the Squires Foundation. First, money for supplies for some work already in process, and then, a grant that provides orientation and oversight of volunteers who will be available to welcome and assist visitors to the Arc by helping them with things like replying to mail, using the phone or computer to make appointments, do paperwork and more.
Test Your Knowledge
Did you know that your Arc chapter is a Social Justice organization? Social justice, is the fair treatment and equitable status of all people in a society. The term also applies to social, political, and economic policies that collectively afford such fairness and equity and is commonly applied to movements that seek fairness, equity and inclusion of people including those with disabilities.
Where does the money come from? Money to operate the Arc of Bay County comes from membership dues, program income from the SSA Rep Payee participants, donations and competitive grant funds.
Thank you for supporting The Arc of Bay County as we work together to build a thriving community for all. For more information, reach out at (989) 893-1346.