There is something truly special happening in Southwest Michigan! For 44 years, the Southwest Michigan Community Action Agency (SMCAA) has been a powerhouse of hope and a catalyst for change. Their mission is simple but profound: empowering individuals and families across Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren Counties to grab hold of economic security and never let go.
Guided by a stellar 2025 Board of Directors (Kim Smith Oldham, Minnie Warren, Corey Christopher, James Lawrence, Gerrod Moore, Chokwe Pitchford, and Kathy Lyons), SMCAA has done the impossible. Even while navigating shrinking budgets, this team delivered critical, life-changing services with a smile. Let’s dive into the amazing numbers that defined their 2025 fiscal year!
Who SMCAA Served
In 2025, SMCAA opened its doors to 5,115 unique individuals, proving that personalized care makes all the difference. The agency’s reach reflects the beautiful diversity of our region across several key areas.
Age and Household Status
Support reached 2,603 seniors, 994 children, 557 retirees, 432 single parents, and 29 veterans.
Individuals with Disabilities
557 individuals with disabling conditions received specialized care to help them thrive.
Racial Demographics
The agency served a broad spectrum of our community, including 2,680 White/Caucasian, 2,025 Black/African American, 45 American Indian/Alaska Native, 12 Asian, and 5 Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander members.
Targeting the Greatest Needs
Following a 2024 Community Needs Assessment, SMCAA tackled the region’s four key priorities (utilities, food, housing, and home safety) head-on!
Utility Assistance
Utility bills should not stand in the way of a happy home. SMCAA injected a staggering $437,119.51 back into the community to keep the lights on and the water flowing. A standout 2025 achievement was the launch of a new metered water utility program that distributed $318,191.00 to local municipalities, helping 635 households clear their balances!
Food and Nutrition
Nobody should go hungry. Using their Benton Harbor warehouse, SMCAA moved mountains of food to those who need it most:
- 53,077 USDA Nutritional Food Boxes (TEFAP) delivered to families.
- 21,116 CSFP Food Boxes provided to our cherished seniors.
- 9,878 households fueled through the local food pantry.
Housing and Homelessness Prevention
From Permanent Supportive Housing to the Van Buren family shelter, SMCAA is in the business of stability.
- Shelter and Housing: They provided 1,863 bed nights in-shelter, 346 bed nights in motels, and secured 65 temporary housing placements.
- Total Support: The team funded 176 rental payments, offered case management to 269 people, and educated 231 renters on their rights. Plus, they connected 4,875 individuals to even more resources through partner referrals!
Weatherization and Housing Rehabilitation
The Weatherization Assistance Program improves home safety and lowers energy costs for residents.
- Repairs and Upgrades: 104 homes received repairs (including emergency work), 60 homes were weatherized, and 18 received energy updates.
- Cost Savings: Homeowners save an average of $280 per year, with retrofits reducing heating costs by 18% and electricity bills by 7%.
Fiscal Year 2025 Financial Summary
SMCAA successfully grew its net assets from $630,244 to $749,819, representing a positive change of $119,575. The agency generated $69,493 in donations and managed a total budget of $5,852,738 across these key areas:
| Program Category | Funding Allocated |
| Housing Assistance | $2,187,504 |
| Weatherization and Rehab | $1,759,081 |
| Other Programs (including CDBG admin) | $873,875 |
| CSBG (Core Funding) | $499,057 |
| Utility Assistance | $365,574 |
| Food Assistance | $114,590 |
Partnerships and Staff Dedication
This impact was managed by a team of 22 staff members administering over 18 programs. Demonstrating a commitment to excellence, the staff logged over 1,100 hours of professional training in 2025.
SMCAA also collaborated with over 275 community partners to address the root causes of poverty. We extend a special acknowledgement to:
AEP Foundation, Berrien Foundation, Golden Plain Farms INC, Four Winds Casino in Partnership with Everi, Greater SW Chapter of Credit Unions, Helping Hands, Meijer Store #41 Benton Harbor, United Federal Credit Union, Wolf Financial Advisory, Whirlpool Corporation, Midwest Family Broadcasting and Y Country, and Rogers Foodland.
How to Get Involved
Community Action remains committed to assisting the residents of Southwest Michigan. You can help maintain these programs by making a tax-deductible 501(c)3 donation.
Contact Information:
- Website: smcaa.com
- Administration Office: 185 E Main St., Suite 303, Benton Harbor, MI 49022 | (269) 925-9077
- Warehouse: 331 Miller St., Benton Harbor, MI 49022 | (269) 605-4188
- Cass Office: 325 Hwy M-62, Cassopolis, MI 49031 | (269) 605-4210
- Van Buren Office: 57150 CR-681, Hartford, MI 49057 | (269) 605-4145
- Family Shelter: Decatur, MI 49045 | (269) 605-4526
