The Student Ambassador Program identifies student leaders from accredited social work programs in Michigan to serve as a liaison between their school and NASW-Michigan. Ambassadors play an important role in sharing resources, supporting recruitment efforts, and helping strengthen relationships between universities and the Chapter.

Running from September through May, the program is designed to be both impactful and manageable, requiring approximately 2–4 hours per month. Throughout the year, Student Ambassadors gain valuable hands-on experience while developing leadership, communication, and advocacy skills that will support their professional growth.

Participants will have opportunities to:

• Build leadership and advocacy skills in a real-world setting
• Represent their social work program within a statewide professional network
• Share resources and opportunities with peers
• Support and host campus-based engagement activities
• Connect with fellow students and social work professionals across Michigan

“The Student Ambassador Program is a powerful way for students to step into leadership while staying connected to the broader profession,” said Kaelyn Lewis, Director of Membership & Communications. “We are excited to welcome a new cohort of passionate student leaders!”

Applications for the 2026–2027 cohort are open now and will be accepted through September 6, 2026. Applicants will be reviewed on a rolling basis beginning August 1, 2026, and selected participants will be required to attend a virtual orientation on Thursday, September 24, 2026, from 5:30–7:00 PM ET.

Students interested in growing their leadership skills, expanding their network, and making an impact in the social work profession are encouraged to apply.

👉 Click here to apply now
👉 Click here to l earn more about the program

Lansing, MI — The National Association of Social Workers – Michigan Chapter (NASW-Michigan) is proud to announce the recipients of its 2026 Agency of the Year, Social Worker of the Year, and Lifetime Achievement Awards, recognizing outstanding contributions to the profession and the communities served across the state.

Each year, NASW-Michigan honors individuals and organizations who exemplify the core values of social work through leadership, innovation, advocacy, and a deep commitment to social justice.

🏢 Agency of the Year Award: Samaritas

The Agency of the Year Award recognizes an organization that employs social workers and demonstrates outstanding contributions to the profession and the communities it serves. NASW-Michigan is proud to recognize Samaritas as the 2026 Agency of the Year.

With more than 90 years of service, Samaritas has built a legacy of walking alongside individuals and families to nurture lasting growth, connection, and empowerment. The organization provides a broad continuum of care across Michigan, including child and family services, behavioral health, refugee resettlement, and housing stability.

Samaritas’ impact is rooted in its ability to blend long-standing experience with forward-thinking innovation. From strengthening families through preservation programs to expanding access to behavioral health and housing services, the organization consistently develops solutions that are both person-centered and system-informed. Their work reflects a deep commitment to meeting communities where they are while adapting to evolving and increasingly complex needs.

In 2025, Samaritas demonstrated extraordinary leadership and ethical commitment during a sudden federal disruption to refugee services. Following a Stop Work Order that halted all refugee reception and placement funding, 431 newly arrived refugees in Michigan were left without critical support. Rather than scale back, Samaritas mobilized immediately—continuing services without federal funding by activating community partners, raising emergency resources, and coordinating statewide efforts to ensure families had access to housing, employment support, school enrollment, and culturally responsive care. Their refugee resettlement team led with professionalism, compassion, and unwavering dedication, embodying the core mission of social work by protecting human dignity and meeting urgent needs in a moment of profound vulnerability.

At the same time, Samaritas strengthened its collaborative impact by engaging in coalitions such as the West Michigan Welcome Plan, Freedom Flight, and the Southeast Michigan Refugee Collaboration, helping to drive innovative, community-based responses to complex challenges. The organization’s recent launch of the House of Innovation in Detroit further reflects its commitment to reimagining systems of care and improving outcomes for children and families across Michigan.

At its core, Samaritas operates from a belief in the dignity and resilience of every individual, emphasizing collaboration, community partnership, and strengths-based care. Their approach reflects a broader commitment to equity, advocacy, and systems transformation—recognizing that lasting change happens through connection, creativity, and shared purpose.

Samaritas exemplifies the 2026 Social Work Month theme, “Social Workers: Uplift. Defend. Transform.” by uplifting communities through compassionate services, defending the dignity of those they serve, and transforming systems through innovation and partnership. As the organization shares, hope is not only a guiding value, but a way of doing the work—demonstrating that meaningful change is always possible.

🌟 Social Worker of the Year: Dr. Tara Consolino, DSW, LMSW

The Social Worker of the Year Award honors a member of NASW-Michigan who exemplifies the profession’s values through outstanding accomplishments in recent years. NASW-Michigan is proud to recognize Dr. Tara Consolino as the 2026 Social Worker of the Year.

Dr. Consolino, a doctoral-prepared clinical social worker and founder of Darkling Psychotherapeutic Services, brings nearly two decades of experience across behavioral health settings, including community mental health, inpatient psychiatry, addiction medicine, and federal service within the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Her work has centered on supporting individuals navigating complex trauma with a clinical approach grounded in authenticity, dignity, and respect for human resilience.

In leadership roles such as Director of Addiction Medicine and Suicide Prevention at the Detroit VA Medical Center, she has contributed to program development, interdisciplinary collaboration, and regional suicide prevention efforts across multiple states. Her work bridges direct care and systems-level impact, reflecting the full scope of social work practice.

Dr. Consolino’s philosophy centers on presence over perfection, emphasizing that the most meaningful moments in social work come from the ability to sit with complexity and remain fully engaged with those being served. Her work aligns closely with the theme “Uplift. Defend. Transform.” - uplifting individuals through authentic therapeutic relationships, defending clients through advocacy and ethical practice, and supporting transformation through trauma-informed care that fosters growth beyond survival.

Dr. Consolino encourages emerging social workers to remain grounded in their values, advocate within imperfect systems, and prioritize sustainability in their work. Her career reflects a deep commitment to advancing a more compassionate, responsive, and human-centered system of care.

🏆 Lifetime Achievement Award: Carol Ann Oleksiak, LMSW, ACSW, IMH-E® Clinical Mentor

The Lifetime Achievement Award celebrates a Michigan social worker whose career reflects a lifetime of outstanding accomplishments and enduring contributions to the profession. NASW-Michigan is proud to recognize Carol Ann Oleksiak as the 2026 Lifetime Achievement Award recipient.

With more than 40 years of experience, Ms. Oleksiak has dedicated her career to supporting children, families, and communities through the Detroit–Wayne County Community Mental Health system. Her work has included early childhood initiatives, consultation with educators and families, and leadership in workforce development.

She played a key role in developing the Michigan Association for Infant Mental Health’s Endorsement System - now recognized internationally - and created the Virtual Center of Excellence, a training system that has supported social workers and partner agencies for nearly two decades. Her contributions to mentorship, education, and leadership have shaped generations of social workers across Michigan.

Ms. Oleksiak’s work reflects a deep commitment to relationships, emphasizing that meaningful change happens through trust, connection, and presence. She continues to provide training, reflective supervision, and consultation, reinforcing ethical, sustainable practice across the field.

Her career embodies the values of “Uplift. Defend. Transform.” - uplifting individuals and communities, defending their dignity through advocacy and ethical care, and transforming systems through collaboration and leadership. Her legacy is one of compassion, mentorship, and lasting impact.

🌱 Emerging Social Work Leader Award: Laurel Hammis, LLMSW

The Emerging Social Work Leader Award recognizes a social worker in the early stages of their career who demonstrates outstanding contributions to the profession and exceptional promise for continued leadership and service. NASW-Michigan is proud to recognize Laurel Hammis, LLMSW as the 2026 Emerging Social Work Leader.

Hammis has quickly distinguished herself as a rising leader through her work at the intersection of higher education and behavioral health. A graduate of Adrian College and the University of Michigan School of Social Work, she has built a career focused on expanding access to education, mental health resources, and inclusive learning environments—guided by a clear sense of purpose that evolved during her academic journey. As she reflects, “All I knew was that I wanted to help people. It was in graduate school that I discovered macro social work and how systems-level change can transform communities.”

Currently serving at Saginaw Valley State University, Hammis has held multiple roles supporting students and professionals across the region. Her work has included direct support for first-generation, low-income, and disabled students through TRIO Student Support Services, as well as leading initiatives to improve access to healthcare and behavioral health resources. Through these roles, she has demonstrated a strong commitment to equity, access, and student success.

Hammis’ leadership is particularly evident in her role as Program Coordinator for the YouthWISE grant, a $1.2 million federally funded initiative aimed at expanding behavioral health education and services in rural and medically underserved communities. Her efforts have contributed to increased access to continuing education and professional development opportunities for social workers across Michigan. In her current roles as MSW Practicum Education Coordinator and Director of Social Work Continuing Education, she has significantly expanded program reach - growing participation from approximately 100 certificates annually to more than 1,600.

Grounded in mentorship and community connection, Hammis credits the guidance of experienced professionals as instrumental in her development, sharing that mentorship helped shape her path early in her career. Her trajectory reflects both intention and impact, as she continues to build pathways for others while advancing her own leadership. As she shares, “Five years ago, I never imagined I would become a social worker. Now, it’s truly what I was meant to do.” Through her work and service, including her role on the Board of Directors for Bay City Players, Hammis embodies the spirit of “Social Workers: Uplift. Defend. Transform.”, representing the next generation of leaders committed to strengthening communities and advancing the profession.

💬 From the NASW-Michigan Awards Committee

Samaritas – Agency of the Year When a federal Stop Work Order abruptly cut off support to 431 recently resettled refugees in Michigan, Samaritas mobilized partners, foundations, and community volunteers to raise over $130,000 and ensure 100% of their clients received essential resettlement services. Their response exemplified the social work profession's commitment to human dignity in the face of systemic crisis.

Carol Oleksiak – Lifetime Achievement Carol Oleksiak's decades-long career in Infant Mental Health transformed care for children and families across Michigan, from founding home visiting programs to building a nationally adopted clinician endorsement system. Her work embodies the profession's highest ideals, moving fluidly from direct clinical practice to macro-level systems change.

Dr. Tara Consolino – Social Worker of the Year Dr. Consolino has advanced trauma-informed care through her clinical practice, leadership at Darkling Psychotherapeutic Services, and her work as a consultant for the feature film Sheepdog. This film portrays the therapeutic relationship in veteran trauma recovery. Her advocacy brings the social work profession into public view and helps reduce stigma around mental health treatment.

Laurel Hammis – Emerging Social Work Leader As this year's Emerging Social Work Leader, Laurel transformed SVSU's continuing education program from fewer than 100 annual certificates to over 1,600 trained behavioral health professionals across rural Michigan in less than a year. Her responsive, community-driven approach to workforce development has made SVSU a recognized training hub for underserved regions statewide.

🎉 Celebrating the Profession

“These awardees represent the very best of social work in Michigan,” said Duane Breijak, NASW-Michigan Executive Director. “Their leadership, innovation, and commitment to social justice continue to strengthen our profession and the communities we serve.”

*This article is part of a collaborative series that focuses on the issue of immigration and how it impacts our work as social workers. Stay tuned for additional articles that seek to help inform Michigan Social Workers about the unique issues that affect those living with varying immigration statuses across micro, mezzo and macro practice areas. This series is being organized, developed and implemented by:

Jenny Bishop LMSW, Therapist & Co-Owner of Elevated Therapeutic Services LLC

Holly DeVivo DSW(s), LMSW, Therapist & Co-Owner of Elevated Therapeutic Services LLC

Sara Camilleri LMSW QIDP, Solo Practitioner of Sand River Therapy

We Are Living Through This — And Social Workers Cannot Look Away

I am outraged.

I am disgusted.

I am heartbroken.

Our country is living through unprecedented times—times in which entire communities are being targeted, terrorized, and stripped of dignity without remorse or humanity. What we are witnessing is not abstract policy or political debate. It is trauma. It is state violence. It is the systematic dehumanization of people who are our clients, our neighbors, our colleagues, and our loved ones.

This article reflects my personal opinion and professional perspective as a social worker. I am not an attorney. But I am someone trained to recognize harm, to name injustice, and to act when systems fail the people they are supposed to protect.

And right now, those systems are failing—catastrophically.

What Is Happening: A Timeline of Escalation

Since President Trump’s second term began on January 20, 2025, federal immigration enforcement has expanded rapidly and aggressively, with devastating consequences.

●  January 20, 2025: Expanded expedited removal authority and elimination of prior enforcement prioritization

●  January 23–24: Operation Safeguard — multi-city enforcement surge across Boston, Denver, Philadelphia, Atlanta, Seattle, Miami, and Washington D.C., resulting in 538 detentions

●  January 23, 2025: Worksite raids resumed, sometimes without judicial warrants

●  February 2025: ICE leadership reassigned to accelerate arrests and deportations nationwide

●  April 21–26, 2025: Florida statewide sweep resulting in over 1,100 arrests

●  June 2025: Los Angeles Apparel District raids targeting manufacturing workers

●  June 20, 2025: 319 people detained during a farm raid near Camarillo, California

●  October 2025: Operation Midway Blitz began in the Chicago area

●  December 2025 – ongoing: Operation Metro Surge deployed thousands of ICE agents across the Minneapolis–Saint Paul region

●  January 2026: Operation Salvo announced in New York City following the murder of Renee Good

In January 2026, two U.S. citizens were the victims of excessive force resulting in the tragic loss of their life. Alex Pretti, and Renee Good. Their deaths have sparked outrage and political action across the nation. However, it is critical for social workers to acknowledge that at the time of this article there are four other people who have died as a result of ICE’s actions this year alone.

This number does not include those who are detained. Silverio Villegas González, Jaime Alanis, Roberto Carlos Montoya Valdez and Josué Castro Rivera’s names are just as important.

A Dangerous Shift: From Custody to Community

ICE has moved away from primarily detaining individuals already in local custody to at-large arrests throughout communities. This includes enforcement actions in spaces once considered “sensitive locations”:

●  Schools

●  Hospitals

●  Courts

●  Places of worship

These are the very places where social workers show up every day. While media access has given us all an array of information, it is important to acknowledge that everything that is happening, is not always publicized, or in our algorithms.

It is estimated that hundreds of thousands of people have been detained or deported since January 2025—many without criminal convictions, many following required processes, many simply living their lives.

What Social Workers Can Do Right Now: Micro, Mezzo, and Macro Action

Micro: What We Can Do With Clients Right Now

At the individual and family level, social workers can:

●  Validate fear, grief, anger, and confusion without minimizing or offering false reassurance

●  Integrate immigration-related safety planning into assessments and ongoing work

●  Share basic “know your rights” information as harm reduction

●  Practice rights-based scripts with clients to reduce panic during encounters

●  Help clients identify emergency contacts, childcare plans, and medical contingencies

●  Reduce retraumatization by avoiding unnecessary questions about immigration status

●  Document client experiences accurately and neutrally, recognizing that records matter

●  Offer telehealth sessions if possible for safety

●  Be mindful to not further oppress people by making this an individual problem they are coping with when the oppression is the cause not the person's coping

Mezzo: What We Can Do Within Institutions and Communities

At the mezzo level, social workers can:

●  Advocate within schools, hospitals, shelters, and agencies for clear non-cooperation and confidentiality policies

●  Ensure emergency contact and caregiver authorization processes are accessible and updated

●  Partner with immigrant-led organizations and legal service providers

●  Organize or participate in know-your-rights trainings and community education

●  Support court accompaniment, family support networks, and mutual aid efforts

●  Interrupt misinformation and dehumanizing narratives within professional spaces

●  Create internal protocols for responding to ICE presence or client detention

Macro: What We Can Do to Challenge Systems

At the macro level, social workers can:

●  Publicly oppose policies and practices that violate human rights and due process

●  Use our professional credibility to speak, write, and testify about the impacts of enforcement

●  Support legislation and policy efforts that protect immigrant communities

●  Hold professional organizations accountable for taking clear positions

●  Push agencies and systems to align practice with ethical obligations

●  Refuse neutrality when neutrality enables harm

Macro work is not optional when policy itself is the source of trauma.

A Note on Ethical Advocacy

Advocacy is incredibly important as part of the social change process. It’s important however to consider ethical approaches to advocacy that don’t directly or indirectly harm impacted community members. Ethical advocacy can look like practicing cultural humility by way of working alongside or supporting advocacy methods of impacted communities. It can look like ensuring accurate information about resources is shared on social media or through other methods versus sharing everything without fact checking. It can look like considering how your advocacy may feel for the impacted community; for example, could my idea cause more fear or perpetuate trauma? Ethical advocacy could look like protesting peacefully, especially during a time when the behavioral pattern demonstrated is retaliation. And perhaps most importantly, ethical advocacy can look like reflecting on if we are engaging in colonized behavior such as white saviorism or other privilege based behaviors which can often be well meaning but ultimately result in more oppressive outcomes, particularly in the area of human dignity, personal agency or harm.

Why This Matters:

When social workers limit themselves to individual interventions, we risk becoming caretakers of harm rather than challengers of it. Engaging fully at micro, mezzo, and macro levels allows us not only to support survival, but to confront the conditions making survival necessary in the first place. This is not extra work. This is the work.

What we are witnessing now is horrifying—but it is not new. The terror currently being publicized has long been a daily reality for immigrant communities. What is new is who is being asked to see it. As a white woman, I often hear people who look like me say they need breaks from the news. That alone is a privilege. For many communities, there is no break—only vigilance, survival, and fear. As social workers, our ethics require us to see this clearly, speak honestly, and act boldly. This moment will be remembered. Not for who stayed comfortable, but for who chose humanity.

And I refuse to look away.

This Moment Calls for Leaders: Join the NASW-Michigan Board of Directors

Click here to apply.

The nomination period for the 2026 NASW-Michigan Chapter Board of Directors is officially open — and this moment in our profession and our communities calls for courageous, values-driven leadership.

Across Michigan, social workers are navigating complex political shifts, workforce challenges, attacks on vulnerable communities, and rapidly evolving practice environments. Now more than ever, we need leaders who are grounded in our Code of Ethics, committed to advocacy, and ready to help shape the future of our profession.

Serving on the NASW-Michigan Board is more than a volunteer role — it is an opportunity to lead in a time when social work voices must be strong, visible, and united.

Nominations are being accepted through Sunday, April 5, 2026.

Our Chapter is filled with extraordinary social workers from every corner of the state — representing diverse roles, lived experiences, identities, and practice settings. What unites us is our shared commitment to social work values and to advancing justice in Michigan. Our Board ensures that the voices of our members inform statewide strategy, advocacy priorities, and Chapter initiatives.

Open Positions for 2026:

• Region 1 Representative (3-year term)
  (Alger, Baraga, Chippewa, Delta, Dickinson, Gogebic, Houghton, Iron, Keweenaw, Luce, Mackinac, Marquette, Menominee, Ontonagon, Schoolcraft)

• Region 3 Representative (3-year term)
  (Alcona, Alpena, Cheboygan, Crawford, Iosco, Montmorency, Ogemaw, Oscoda, Otsego, Presque Isle, Roscommon)

• Region 4 Representative (3-year term)
  (Ionia, Kent, Mecosta, Montcalm, Muskegon, Newaygo, Oceana, Ottawa)

• Region 9 Representative (3-year term)
  (Allegan, Barry, Berrien, Branch, Calhoun, Cass, Kalamazoo, St. Joseph, Van Buren)

• BSW Student Representative (1-year term)

• MSW Student Representative (1-year term)

• Member-At-Large (1-year term)

When you step into leadership, you will:

• Help advance and strengthen the social work profession through state and national advocacy

• Shape Chapter strategic priorities and policy decisions

• Elevate the voices of social workers in your region

• Expand your professional network across Michigan

• Grow your leadership skills through statewide engagement opportunities

• Collaborate with dedicated NASW-Michigan staff and volunteer leaders

The NASW-Michigan Board of Directors is composed of 19 members elected by our Chapter membership. Three-year terms begin July 1 and align with our fiscal year (July 1 – June 30). Student Representatives and the Member-At-Large serve one-year terms.

The 2026 Chapter election will run May 4 – May 20. Candidates will be notified by June 1, with new Board members beginning their service July 1.

If you have been waiting for a sign to step into leadership — this is it. Our profession needs your voice, your perspective, and your courage.

Learn more about the positions, our mission, and strategic plan, and submit your nomination today.

Click here to apply.

Getting ready for your social work licensure exam? NASW Chapters nationwide are teaming up to bring you the best trainer at the lowest possible price—so you can feel confident and prepared on exam day!

Join our comprehensive Licensure Exam Review Prep Course with renowned national trainer Dr. Dawn Apgar. Our Licensure Exam Review Prep Course is designed to help you understand the exam inside and out—so you can walk in fully prepared and walk out with results you’re proud of.

Click here to register for an upcoming course!

What You’ll Gain:

• A 6.5-hour live virtual review session with Dawn Apgar, one of the most trusted names in social work exam prep

• Digital access to Springer Publishing’s exam study guide, included with your registration (Your study guide will be specific to your test)

• Full access to ExamPrepConnect, a powerful learning management system designed specifically for social work licensure

This course doesn’t overwhelm you with deep-dive content reviews. Instead, it gives you what you really need:

• A clear understanding of the exam’s structure and expectations

• Strategies for tackling questions effectively

• Practice interpreting sample questions the right way

• Guidance on avoiding common pitfalls that impact scores

It’s the perfect fit for all exam categories—Bachelors, Masters, Advanced Generalist, and Clinical.

Ready to boost your competence, confidence, and test-taking mindset?

We’d love to support you on your path to licensure.

PRICING:
NASW Members: $125
Not-Yet-Members: $200

DATES:

• Sunday, 2/8/26 – 9:00am-4:30pm CST

• Monday, 2/23/26 – 11:00am-6:30pm CST

• Saturday, 3/14/26 – 9:00am-4:30pm CST

• Tuesday, 4/14/26 – 9:00am-4:30pm CST

• Tuesday, 5/19/26 – 11:00am-6:30pm CST

• Thursday, 6/4/26 – 9:00am-4:30pm CST

• Saturday, 6/6/26 – 10:00am-5:30pm CST

• Wednesday, 6/17/26 – 8:00am-3:30pm CST

• Tuesday, 7/14/26 – 9:00am-4:30pm CST

• Tuesday, 8/25/26 – 11:00am-6:30pm CST

Click here to register for an upcoming course!

Statement Regarding the ASWB Exams
ASWB released its 2022 ASWB Exam Pass Rate Analysis in early August 2022, confirming glaring disparities in pass rates among racial and other demographic groups. NASW does not support use of the ASWB exams in their current form and is advocating for significant changes to testing and regulation, including proposing alternative pathways to licensure in Michigan.  However, as long as the ASWB exams remain an option, we will continue to offer this course at the lowest possible price to provide you with great resources and strategies to prepare for your exam. If you're an NASW member who has taken the exam and has not passed and would like to be a part of our advocay efforts, please email jriley.naswmi@socialworkers.org. 

Dear Michigan Social Workers,

We’re excited to share an important legislative development that directly affects mental health providers across Michigan. After several years of coordinated advocacy, new legislation has been introduced in the Michigan House of Representatives—HB 5478—to limit the amount of insurance payments insurers can “claw back” from health care providers, including licensed social workers.

This issue has been a growing concern for clinicians across the state, particularly in light of recent clawback actions by insurers such as Blue Cross Blue Shield and Meridian. For this reason, NASW-Michigan has made insurance clawbacks a top legislative priority and has worked closely with national coalitions to identify effective policy solutions.

What are insurance clawbacks?

Insurance “clawbacks”—also known as chargebacks, takebacks, or recoupments—occur when an insurance company demands repayment for services that were already provided and paid for. These demands often come months or even years after care was delivered, and frequently with little clarity or justification. Insurers may request repayment directly or deduct the amount from future claim payments.

For many social workers—especially those in private practice—clawbacks make it difficult to predict income or maintain financial stability. As a result, some providers have felt forced to leave insurance panels, including Medicaid. This ultimately harms client access to care, particularly for those who rely on insurance to afford mental health services.

Notably, Michigan is currently one of only 10 states with no time limits on insurance clawbacks.

Background on recent advocacy

Beginning in mid-2023, behavioral health professionals across Michigan—including social workers, counselors, agencies, and hospitals—began receiving unexpected notices of potential clawbacks for past client services. In many cases, the amounts ranged from thousands to tens of thousands of dollars, often accompanied by unclear or incomplete communication from insurers.

In response, NASW-Michigan:

• Held listening sessions with social workers statewide to understand the scope and impact

• Met with insurance representatives and coalition partners

• Began legislative discussions with policymakers, including Representatives Brabec, Coffia, MacDonell, VanderWall, and Senator Chang

On March 25, 2025, NASW-Michigan Executive Director Duane Breijak and NASW-Michigan lobbyist De’Shondria Bedenfield (Capitol Services) met with Representative Curtis VanderWall, Chair of the House Health Policy Committee, and his staff. The meeting also included partners from the Michigan Mental Health Counselors Association (President Chris DeBoer, Treasurer Krystin Sankey, and organizational legislative lobbyist at Acuitas).

This collaborative discussion focused on the financial strain caused by unpredictable insurance recoupments and laid important groundwork for legislative action. Representative VanderWall and his team were engaged and expressed genuine interest in addressing these concerns.

Legislation introduced: HB 5478

On January 27, 2026, Representative VanderWall formally introduced HB 5478, a bill to address insurance clawbacks in Michigan.

Legislative status:

• 1/27/2026 – Introduced in the House

• 1/27/2026 – Read for the first time

• 1/27/2026 – Referred to the House Committee on Insurance

This marks a significant milestone in our shared effort to protect mental health providers from excessive and unpredictable financial risk.

HB 5478 would:

• Establish a 90-day limit on claim re-adjudication and recoupment (except in cases of fraud)

• Create clear standards and requirements insurers must follow when requesting a chargeback

What’s next & how you can help

NASW-Michigan will continue working closely with Representative VanderWall and his staff as the bill moves through the legislative process. We will also remain in active collaboration with our advocacy partners, including MMHCA, MPA, MHHA, the Michigan Association of Chiropractors, and others.

As HB 5478 advances, we will share opportunities for social workers to engage—such as contacting legislators, supporting cosponsorship, and participating in testimony.

• Track the bill: legislature.mi.gov (HB 5478)

• Interested in testifying (written or in person)?
  Email NASW-Michigan Policy & Advocacy Manager Jess Riley at
  jriley.naswmi@socialworkers.org

Thank you for your dedication to the people of Michigan and for the essential work you do every day. And a special thank you to NASW members—your support makes this advocacy possible.

The Board of Directors of the NASW-Michigan Chapter (NASW-MI) extends our deepest condolences to the families, friends, and communities of Renee Nicole Good, Alex Jeffrey Pretti, Keith Porter, Silverio Villegas González, Jaime Alanis, Roberto Carlos Montoya Valdez, and Josué Castro Rivera, whose lives were tragically cut short during recent federal immigration enforcement operations.

The circumstances surrounding their deaths have reverberated across the nation, raising urgent concerns about the use of deadly force by federal law enforcement personnel, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and U.S. Border Patrol. We acknowledge that violence and systemic oppression have long and disproportionately impacted Black, Brown, and Indigenous communities. Today, these injustices are being further exposed through increased visibility and media coverage. As these realities come into sharper focus, it is vital that we continue to support and uplift communities that have been marginalized and overpoliced for generations. Our commitment remains rooted in advocating for justice and equity and in centering the voices of those most affected.

These deaths have shaken communities far beyond Minnesota and have intensified serious, long-standing concerns about the conduct of ICE and other federal law enforcement agencies—particularly the use of force during enforcement operations. The loss of life under these circumstances is unacceptable and demands accountability.

NASW-MI stands in solidarity with the people of Minnesota and with communities across the country experiencing fear, grief, and trauma as a result of aggressive immigration enforcement. We recognize the pain of those who no longer feel safe in their own neighborhoods, workplaces, or public spaces. We also stand with those calling for transparency, justice, and meaningful change.

Immigrant enforcement concerns are already in Michigan as well. 

• The state is home to the largest immigration detention center in the Midwest, located in Baldwin. 
• Community members in the southeast part of the state have been demanding transparency and protesting the more than 165 charter flights operated by private Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) contractors that left Willow Run Airport in 2025.
• Just this week in Ypsilanti, ICE officials were reported waiting near school bus stops, targeting families as they picked up their children from school. These actions deepen fear and mistrust within communities and place families—particularly children—at risk of lasting harm.

As social workers, we are guided by the belief that every person has inherent dignity and worth. Practices rooted in intimidation, excessive force, or fear directly undermine this principle and cause lasting harm—not only to individuals and families, but to entire communities. When state systems cause harm, it is our ethical responsibility to speak out.

NASW-MI calls for independent, transparent investigations into the deaths of Renee Good and Alex Pretti, as well as a comprehensive review of immigration enforcement practices that put lives at risk and erode public trust. Public safety cannot be achieved through violence, and justice cannot exist without accountability.

Michigan Resources for Immigrant Communities

Social workers in Michigan can refer individuals and families to the following trusted organizations:

• Michigan Immigrant Rights Center. (MIRC) – Immigration legal services and advocacy
• Justice for Our Neighbors–Michigan – Free immigration legal assistance
• ACLU of Michigan – Civil rights advocacy and know-your-rights information
• ACCESS (Arab Community Center for Economic and Social Services)
• Michigan United – Community organizing and support
  
• Freedom House Detroit – Services for asylum seekers and survivors of persecution
• WICIR (Washtenaw Interfaith Coalition for Immigrant Rights)

We encourage social workers to build relationships with these organizations and to stay connected to local rapid-response and mutual aid efforts.

NASW-MN Resources for Communities Affected by Federal Violence

NASW-MN has partnered with community organizations to identify those best equipped to provide support during this crisis. We are sharing this list for anyone seeking support, looking to get involved, or interested in making a donation. Click here to learn more

Caring for Social Workers

We also recognize that social workers are affected by these events. Bearing witness to violence, injustice, and community suffering can take a real toll. We urge social workers to lean on one another, seek supervision and peer support, set boundaries around media exposure, and access mental health care when needed. Caring for ourselves is part of our ethical responsibility to do this work well.

NASW-MN is also offering Member Processing Circles as a safe, supportive space for members to process emotions, connect with one another, and share resources.

Upcoming Circles (Free & Open to All NASW Members):

• Tuesday 2/3 — 12–1 PM CT

• Wednesday 2/4 — 5:30–6:30 PM CT

Register here: https://bit.ly/ProcessingCircles

We will be scheduling additional dates. If none of these times work for you and you would like to attend, please reach out to admin.naswmn@socialworkers.org so we can work to provide a time that fits your schedule.

Additionally, please be on the lookout for a local event in your region to connect with other Michigan social workers in the upcoming weeks.

Advocacy Opportunities

Contact state lawmakers and urge them to support Michigan Senate Bills 508-510, legislation to prohibit the wearing of face covering masks by law enforcement officers, to protect schools, places of worship, hospitals, shelters and courthouses from immigration enforcement without a judicial warrant, and to protect people's personal private data from being used for immigration enforcement without a judicial warrant. LINK: https://secure.ngpvan.com/6qW40f-s10iMvPJ99qrCpw2 (These bills are set to be in committee hearings on 1/29)
Support Senate Resolution 86. A resolution to urge the United States Congress to pass legislation to require immigration officers to display visible identification, prohibit immigration officers from covering their faces, and limit immigration enforcement actions in sensitive locations. Contact federal lawmakers and urge them to vote NO on the Department of Homeland Security budget that includes no significant changes or accountability for ICE.

• Senator Gary Peters. (202) 224-6221
• Senator Elissa Slotkin. (202) 224-4822

Potential phone script: “My name is _______ and I am a social worker and constituent from  ________, Michigan. I am calling today to urge you to NOT vote for any funding appropriation that provides additional funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement. ICE needs more restrictions and accountability for their actions, including recent occupations and community violence. Patterns of unchecked violence and harm have no place in our country, and I ask that you not expand ICE’s ability to continue this violence.”

Our Commitment

NASW-MI mourns the lives of Renee Good and Alex Pretti. We stand with their families, with the people of Minnesota, and with all communities harmed by unjust and violent enforcement practices. We remain committed to advocating for systems that protect life, respect human dignity, and promote healing rather than harm.

Social workers will continue to show up—for our communities, for justice, and for one another.

Upcoming Trainings

VIRTUAL: Legal Observer Training 

Wednesday, February 4, 2026

6:30-8:30pm

Click here to register

Join the NLG in protecting the First Amendment rights of protesters from police interference by becoming a Legal Observer! LOs can be legal workers, as well as activists or community members, who share the NLG's values of people's rights over property rights.

VIRTUAL: Social Work Campaign School

Friday, February 6, 2026

12-6pm. 6 CEs

Click here to register

Join social workers across the nation for this one-day virtual training dedicated to empowering social workers to step into political leadership. Through this program, we aim to equip social workers with the skills and insights needed to create meaningful change in our communities through pursuit of elected office.

VIRTUAL: "Resist Together" Know Your Rights Training

Saturday, February 7, 2026

3 – 4:30pm EST

Click here to register

Please join the Detroit, Michigan National Lawyers Guild (NLG) and Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib for a Know Your Rights with ICE and Law Enforcement Training. This training is an opportunity to learn how to enforce your Constitutional rights when you encounter ICE and other law enforcement officers in your home, neighborhood, workplace, or community.

Know Your Rights Town Hall with Rep. Pohutsky

Monday, February 9, 2026

5:30-7pm

Redford Township District Library (and virtual)

Hear how to enforce your constitutional rights during encounters with ICE, Border Patrol, and other law enforcement. We'll be joined by the ACLU of Michigan and the Michigan Immigrant Rights Center. You can register to attend via Zoom at https://tinyurl.com/2em59sek for those unable to attend in person.

Series Overview

A training series designed to help social workers understand Michigan’s policy landscape and use their voices for change. From advocacy basics to Capitol Action Day prep, each session builds real-world skills that strengthen professional impact and collective power.

Training Sessions

Session 1 — Advocating with Strength: How to Collaborate with NASW

Thursday, January 22 · 2pm ET
Overview: Intro to NASW’s advocacy structure, legislative priorities, and tools for engagement.
Speakers: Jess Riley, Duane Breijak
Moderator: Katelyn Magos
🔗 Click for Registration Information

Session 2 — Campaign School

Friday, February 6 · 12–6pm
Overview: Practical guidance for social workers considering running for office or supporting campaigns.
🔗 Click for Registration Information

Session 3 — Understanding Michigan’s Legislature: How Bills Become Law & What to Expect in 2026

Tuesday, February 10 · 12pm
Overview: Deep dive into Michigan’s legislative process, timelines, and key players.
Speakers: Jess Riley, De’Shondria Bedenfield (Capitol Services)
🔗 Click for Registration Information

Session 4 — 2026 Michigan Governor Candidate Behavioral Health Forum

Expected late February - Date TBA
Overview: Hear directly from gubernatorial candidates on behavioral health priorities.
🔗 Registration opening soon

Session 5 — Policy Review Lab: Preparing for Capitol Action Day

Thursday, March 5 & March 12 · Time TBA
Overview: Hands-on practice reviewing bills, shaping talking points, and preparing for legislative meetings.
Moderators: Katelyn Magos (5th), Colton Ray (12th)
🔗 Registration opening soon

Session 6 — Capitol Action Day: The Social Worker’s Guide to Effective Lobbying

Tuesday, March 17 · Time TBA
Overview: On-the-ground advocacy practice with lawmakers and community leaders.
🔗 Registration opening soon

Session 7 — Community Power: How to Canvass and Connect with Local Leaders

Thursday, April 16 · Time TBA
Overview: Practical strategies for building community coalitions and mobilizing local engagement.
🔗 Registration opening soon

Session 8 — Engaging During Election Season: How Social Workers Shape Campaigns

Tuesday, April 28 · Time TBA
Overview: Understanding the social worker’s role in campaigns, messaging, and voter engagement.
🔗 Registration opening soon

Resources & Tools

A central hub for everything referenced across the series.

NASW-MI Advocacy Tools

• VoterVoice

• Legislative Priorities

• One-Pagers

• Legislative Social Policy (LSP)

• MPACE

• Campaign School

• Governor Candidate Behavioral Health Forum

• Capitol Action Day

• Lunch Series Legislative Forecast Recording
  

External Policy Resources

• Legislative tracking tools

• Michigan Legislature website
  
  

Templates & Downloads

• Email scripts for legislators

• Advocacy checklists

• Candidate forum prep materials

About the Series Moderator

Katelyn Magos, BSW Student at CMU
NASW-MI Intern

kmagos.naswmi@socialworkers.org

Meet NASW-Michigan’s Newest Education Manager, Jordan Freeman, LMSW-Clinical

Hi everyone!

I am Jordan Freeman. I use she/her/hers pronouns and I have been working with NASW-Michigan as the Workforce Program Manager since 2024 and am excited to be shifting my working with the Chapter to a more permanent role as your Education Manager! As a licensed clinical social worker myself I am eager to support you all in a new way and help you get engaged in your networking, resource connection, and  continuing education needs.

Why did you choose social work?
I entertained many different areas of study when I started college but after working closely with a college counselor who happened to be an LMSW, I realized that social work had elements of every part of other majors that I enjoyed. I was fascinated by psychology and culture so the academic components of sociology and psychology met that learning need. I also wanted to put all that knowledge into action to help people which I found I could most directly do as a social worker. And mostly, I was drawn, at the beginning of my journey, to the versatility of the social work degree. There are so many places we get to work as social workers and so many transferable skills. I loved collecting all of them for my toolbox knowing I would be able to use them in a variety of settings. 

What has been your social work career journey?
I earned my Master’s in Social Work from the University of Michigan in 2014 after finishing my Bachelor’s of Social Work from Eastern Michigan University in 2013. Throughout my career I have had the opportunity to work in a range of roles and on a variety of projects that spanned both the micro and macro social work worlds; including hospice social work with McLaren Hospice, a variety of grant-fund program management roles at Trinity Health, and most recently as a contractual Workforce Manager at NASW-Michigan.

Over the last several years I have used my clinical expertise in private practice where I specialized in working with mostly young adults who were navigating anxiety, depression, adjustment and grief. Additionally, this spring I will also be teaching two sections of a BSW-level course at Oakland University. 

What other passions/hobbies do you have?
I am a very passionate animal person. I have two Morgan horses, Lovey and Beckham, who I ride and care for daily. At home I work with our two cats, Dexter and Reid, and our 10 month old Golden Retriever puppy, Barney. When I have the opportunity to get away, my husband and I enjoy camping and exploring the National Parks. I flirt with long-distance running and yoga and always aspire to do both more consistently! 

How can social workers connect with you?
As I begin serving NASW-Michigan as the Education Manager I am most looking forward to connecting and collaborating with social workers across the state. As I continue to get onboarded to this new role, I would love to hear from you if you have any topics you’d like to see offered or if you have an expertise you’d be willing to share with your social work community.

My email is jfreeman.naswmi@socialworkers.org - I look forward to connecting and supporting you! 

Jordan Freeman, LMSW-clinical

As 2025 draws to a close, we want to extend our deepest gratitude to all of you who turned Compassion into Action this year. While our state has been facing critical behavioral health workforce shortages and shifting policy landscapes, your dedication has been the bedrock of our profession. We have been able to rely on each other throughout the year to process the good with the bad on both the micro and macro scales of our profession and that is truly worth celebrating! We are honored and excited to continue supporting the workforce development and advocacy work of NASW-Michigan, as the Michigan Health-Endowment Fund awarded us another two years of grant funding to develop licensure coalitions, expand research, and to create an alternative exam option. Before we dive headfirst into the new year I wanted to take this moment to reflect on the wins as well as the challenges that we all faced together in 2025. 

Let’s Look Back 

We started the new year with a new administration federally and a new state legislature. While we were disappointed that our licensure bills did not cross the finish line in 2024, we did not give up. On the micro level here at NASW-Michigan we spent the year working with our coalition partners at the Community Mental Health Association, the Deans and Directors of Michigan’s Schools of Social Work, and numerous other fierce advocates for licensure modernization strategizing the best path forward. Our Policy and Advocacy Manager and Executive Director had countless meetings with Representatives and Senators from across the state to provide context and education related to the importance of licensure modernization. Simultaneously Representative Edwards put up a bill focused on extension of the limited license renewal cap which we hope to see some movement on in 2026. 

During Social Work Month in March we took the opportunity to reflect on the theme of “Compassion + Action” - something that we can continue to consider and practice past 2025. Around the time of social work month, Governor Whitmer and LARA came out with their “Cutting the Red Tape” Report on workforce and licensure reform. Much of their findings and plans for Michigan were aligned with our efforts - you can read the full recap here. We also published an update on the Scope of Practice for Limited Licensed social workers in Michigan that we hope to follow up with more similar content in 2026. If you have ideas or interest in helping with a blog series on these and other workforce related topics, reach out to Jordan at jfreeman.naswmi@socialworkers.org . 

Another notable update from 2025 relates to the Social Work Interstate Compact. While we are putting the full-force of our efforts towards licensure modernization, NASW-Michigan continues to follow the movement of the commission for the Social Work Interstate Compact. The update that can be found here continues to ring true - while we do not have compact legislation introduced currently we have been having meetings in preparation for that in 2026. During 2025 we joined the National task-force that is working on a more uniform push towards an alternative pathway. With a unified recommendation for this it is our hope that the Compact will also incorporate an alternative pathway for compact licensure. This task force hopes to put out a survey in 2026! 

The Workforce & Working Conditions Workgroup was busy in 2025 with a notable deliverable met with the spring 2025 Supervisor survey that went out. Over 200 social work supervisors completed the survey, providing us with a wealth of demographic information as well as insight and wisdom related to how supervision is being provided across the state. For the recap on this survey click here. Watch for more related to supervision standards and our hopeful push for more solid supervision recommendations in 2026! 

In November, we had the privilege of hosting Dr. Tyler Gibb from Western Michigan University and his colleague, Nicole Alveraz (lead author on their project) to present on their research that focuses on ethical violations across the healthcare fields. Their ethics training they hosted for our social work community started a wonderful conversation related to how professionals are getting into disciplinary trouble and how social work matches up to some of our colleagues in other health fields. If you missed it you can watch the recording here. This connects closely with the work that we have been doing looking at disciplinary actions specifically in Michigan’s social workers. As a state that has about a third of social workers who were “grandparented in” and therefore did not pass the ASWB exam and are practicing alongside social workers who have, we are in a unique position to do some analysis. We hope to finish this research in 2026 with our continued funding award from the Michigan Health Endowment Fund. 

Looking Forward 

As we start the new year we have a lot of work to look forward to! With the continued funding from the Michigan Health Endowment Fund, we will continue to advocate and promote our Licensure Modernization work in the hopes of making Michigan a more equitable place for social workers. Michigan boasts over 20 schools of social work and we want to meet all of our new social workers with a process that is accessible, equitable and reasonable for them to enter the profession and be able to STAY in the profession through licensure. 

We will continue to encourage and welcome engagement in our workgroups and have some exciting projects in the works in 2026.

• Workforce & Working Conditions Committee: This group meets on the 4th Thursday of the month and has workgroups for supervision, salary and working conditions. All three workgroups have special projects they are working on. Of particular note is a salary survey that will be coming out in the spring in collaboration with Ferris State. 

• Private Practice Workgroup: This group meets on the first Friday of the month and is a great resource for clinicians who are working in private practice or who are interested in making this career shift.

• Legislative & Social Policy Committee: This group meets on the 3rd Friday of the month and recommends Board positions on social and legislative action and develops the Chapter’s legislative advocacy agenda. The Committee educates and engages the membership in the legislative process, administrative actions, and ballot initiatives that affect social workers and their client populations. NASW has a strong commitment to political action and advocacy and this Committee provides a way for the Chapter and its members to engage in critical political issues.

In addition to our committees and workgroups, we already have some great work-force related events on our calendar for 2026! 

• Monthly FREE CE’s - The Practice Pulse series : The second Tuesday of each month from 12-1pm we offer a free CE with topics that vary. The first falls on January 13 - The Practice Pulse -- Promoting Accessibility: Braille & Talking Books (Virtual) - 1 CE

• We have a new cohort of Core Supervision starting up in January (January 16 - February 1)

• Our second annual Campaign School is already almost here! Join us virtually Friday February 6 from 12-6 pm for a full day of learning related to getting involved in political action or running for office! 

• March 17 is Capital Action Day ! It will be a great day to get together in Lansing and have boots-on-the-ground with legislators! 

Additionally, we know that the state’s Board of Social Work has seats that are opening in 2026 and we encourage social workers who are interested in being involved in disciplinary actions to consider applying for a seat at the table. They are not currently listed on their website but check back here in the new year to apply! 

We hope you take some time in the last few weeks of the year to do a similar reflection of the year we are ending and the one that we are welcoming in! Our hopes for 2026 involve connecting with all of you and helping further support, foster and cherish the social work profession - not only in Michigan but in our new chapter partners of Alaska and the International Chapter. We hope to learn more in 2026 related to how best to serve all of our members and look to the National office to provide that support and information. While transitions are often difficult we are hoping with optimism that we can use all of our social work skills and values to come together. Have a wonderful holiday season - see you in 2026!  

Notable Resources and Reports from 2025

• ASWB recently published their 2024 pass rate data

• Michigan Health Council - Behavioral Healthcare Workforce Comparison Report

• Utah is accepting public comment on their Mental Health Professional Practice Act Rule (R156-60e) that would be impacting their Social Work supervision requirements by expanding eligibility requirements for their supervisors, creating formal clinical supervision training pathways, requiring ongoing training for supervisors, instating an automatic loss of supervisor status for social workers who are disciplined, as well as more structured supervision contracts and duties for both supervisors and supervisees. This movement is validating as we continue to explore similar supervision standard recommendations for Michigan in 2026.

NASW-Michigan is excited to announce the dates in our 10th annual partnership with the Detroit Pistons. Enjoy a fun night at Little Caesars Arena with your social work colleagues, friends, and family, all while supporting your NASW-Michigan Chapter!

This year we have four great games to choose from, including Pistons Pride Night, Thursday March 26 that includes a Pistons Pride Soccer Jersey. The other three games includes voucher to go on court post game and take a free throw and a portion of the proceeds benefits NASW Michigan.

• Monday, January 19, 2026. Boston Celtics (8:00pm)
• Friday, February 27, 2026. Cleveland Cavaliers (7:00pm)
• Thursday, March 26, 2026. New Orleans Pelicans (7:00pm) - SPECIAL PRIDE GAME
• Thursday, April 2, 2026. Minnesota Timberwolves (7:00pm)

Grab your tickets today at www.pistons.com/nasw.

Dear members and the broader social work community,

My name is Jess Riley, and I’m excited to introduce myself as NASW-Michigan’s new Policy and Advocacy Manager.

I first got involved with NASW as a BSW intern with the Texas Chapter back in 2020, an opportunity which eventually evolved into a full-time community organizing role where I worked with social workers, students, and community and advocacy partners to grow membership and mobilize our collective power for political action. I also have a background in campaign work and field organizing, which has shaped my approach to relationship-building, political strategy, and people-centered advocacy.

I recently completed my MSW at the University of Michigan, where I focused on community-based policy work related to many issue areas including housing affordability, transportation, food access, and labor rights at the local level. Over the past many years, I’ve centered my work on supporting people in finding their advocacy voice and making policy feel accessible and connected to the realities social workers experience every day.

In this new role, I’m excited to support NASW-Michigan’s legislative priorities, uplift member voices, and help build a strong advocacy infrastructure that reflects the needs and values of social workers across the state. I look forward to meeting and collaborating with many of you in the months ahead.

Please feel free to reach out anytime. Whether you want to get involved, share a policy concern, or talk about issues impacting your community or practice, you can reach me at jriley.naswmi@socialworkers.org or (517) 940-4684.

Thank you for the work you do each day. I’m grateful to join you in this statewide advocacy effort.

Warmly,

Jess Riley, MSW (she/they)

Policy & Advocacy Manager

NASW-Michigan

Macomb County, MI - As families across Michigan gather to celebrate gratitude and togetherness this Thanksgiving season, Kalasho Education and Youth Services is proud to announce a heartfelt partnership with Advancing Macomb, the National Association of Social Workers-Michigan Chapter (NASW-Michigan), Kindness Collective and the Girl Scouts of Southeastern Michigan (GSSEM) to ensure that no family in Macomb County is left hungry during the holiday season. 

Together, these organizations are launching “MINDful Giving Boxes” - thoughtfully curated packages of food and essentials designed to help families experiencing food insecurity enjoy the warmth and nourishment of the season. Each box provides enough food to feed a family of four for two weeks, offering both sustenance and the spirit of Thanksgiving.

Each MINDful Giving Box will be filled with Thanksgiving comfort and care, including:

• Pantry staples like rice, lentils, and pasta

• Canned vegetables, beans, and hearty soups

• Peanut butter and shelf-stable milk for family favorites

• Cooking essentials such as oil, flour, and sugar

• Special Thanksgiving items such as stuffing mix and mashed potatoes 

• Kid-friendly snacks for little ones to enjoy

• Hygiene essentials including soap and paper goods

Each box is designed to help families share nourishing meals and moments of gratitude this Thanksgiving season.

“At Girl Scouts, we believe in empowering girls to take action and create positive change,” said Monica Woodson, CEO of Girl Scouts of Southeastern Michigan. “By helping families receive MINDful Giving Boxes, our girls are learning the value of service, compassion, and leadership in their own communities.”

“In moments where systems fall short, it is our shared humanity that must rise to meet the need. The MINDful Giving Box partnership is a powerful example of what can happen when we choose to act in solidarity,” said Duane Breijak, Executive Director of NASW-Michigan. “NASW-Michigan is honored to join with local organizations, youth leaders, and families to ensure that every household has access to the essentials they need to thrive. Meeting basic needs is not charity—it is justice, and it is community.”

“At Advancing Macomb, we believe that strong communities are built through collaboration and compassion,” said Phil Gilchrist, Executive Director of Advancing Macomb. “The MINDful Giving Box initiative is a powerful example of how local organizations can come together to meet urgent needs with dignity and care. We’re proud to support this effort and help ensure that families across Macomb County have access to the essentials they need to thrive.”

“MINDful Giving Boxes are about more than providing food — they’re about ensuring that every family feels cared for and supported through the holidays,” said Sumaiya Ahmed Sheikh, Executive Director of Kalasho Education and Youth Services. “As more than 500 families face food insecurity this season, our mission is simple yet powerful: no family should be left behind, and no child should go to bed hungry.”

"Food insecurity has been a reality for many Americans, and it has intensified during these uncertain times." said Katarina Flathau, Executive Director of the Kindness Collective Foundation. “We are grateful to Kalasho Education and Youth Services for their swift support in helping families access healthy meals when they need it most.”

For more information on how to receive a MINDful Giving Box or to support the initiative, visit www.kalasho.org/donation or follow @KalashoEducation on social media.

Originally posted on NASW   

Danny Wimmer

AG Nessel Announces Victory on SNAP Case

After Lawsuit Brought by Coalition of 23 Attorneys General, and 3 Governors, Court orders USDA to fund SNAP

This week, NASW-Michigan took urgent action to advocate for the thousands of Michigan families who stand to be impacted by the federal government’s pause on November SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits.

On behalf of our state’s social workers and the communities we serve, NASW-Michigan sent formal letters to Governor Gretchen Whitmer and the Michigan Legislature urging swift state-level action to mitigate the harm caused by this federal funding lapse. Our message was clear: no Michigan family should go hungry because of bureaucratic gridlock.

In our letters, we called on state leaders to explore emergency relief options, coordinate with food banks and community partners, and advocate to federal officials to restore and safeguard SNAP funding immediately.

We were encouraged when Governor Whitmer announced an additional $4.5 million to the Food Bank Council of Michigan, as well as the Senate passing a bill that would provide $71 million to continue SNAP benefits beyond Nov. 1 if the USDA puts a freeze on the program. Unfortunately, at this time it looks that those efforts have stalled in the House, as Speak Matt Hall has signals he does not plan on bringing up the legislation. We are encouraging all social workers to contact Speaker Hall immediately and encourage the bills to be brought up. His office can be reached at (517) 373-1784 or MattHall@house.mi.gov.

Social workers see firsthand how food insecurity affects health, education, and family stability—and we will continue to use our collective voice to demand solutions that protect Michigan’s most vulnerable residents.

You can read the full letter to state leaders here.

Thank you for your ongoing commitment to social justice and for standing with us in this critical moment of advocacy.

Contact your legislators

• Find out how to contact the president of the United States.
• Get contact information for U.S. senators.
• Find website and contact information for U.S. representatives.
• Michigan House Speaker, Matt Hall. (517) 373-1784 or MattHall@house.mi.gov.

From the Michigan Department of Natural Resources: Hunters Feedings Michigan

We know many are concerned with potential impacts to federal food assistance (SNAP) and want to remind Michiganders to consider supporting the Hunters Feeding Michigan program. This program supports people throughout the state with the assistance of hunters, deer processors and the Food Bank Council of Michigan.

*From Oct. 1, 2024 to Oct. 1 2025, over 140,000 lbs. (560,000 servings) of high-quality venison has been donated to people in need throughout our state.

Hunters can donate deer at participating processors or provide monetary donations when purchasing DNR licenses. Those monetary donations assist with processing deer for distribution.

If you are a hunter planning to participate in this year's deer season, we are working with several businesses around the state to hold deer drive events to help get even more venison into communities in need. Please visit our Hunters Feeding Michigan page to learn more about the program, how you can help, and for deer drive event information.

Washtenaw County

In Washtenaw County, at least 14% of residents experience food insecurity and nearly 8% receive SNAP benefits. The Michigan ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) Report found that 38% of Washtenaw County households struggle to afford basic needs. For SNAP recipients who still have remaining funds, Double Up has made temporary program changes to support access to fresh and frozen produce. Food Gatherers, a food bank and rescue program that partners with 140 different community organizations across Washtenaw County, continues to break record numbers of groceries being distributed, while experiencing an estimated $2.5 million in federal cuts. 

Despite facing a budget shortfall, Food Gatherers has communicated to its partner agencies that they will soon be increasing food distribution efforts, in response to the delay of SNAP benefits. Washtenaw County residents can visit the Food Gatherers website and use the “Find Food Map” to search for free meal programs and food pantries, with the option to filter by time, day, location, and services available, and can call their office during open hours with any questions about resources. Two of these partner agencies primarily service University students, the Maize & Blue Cupboard on University of Michigan’s Ann Arbor campus, and Swoop’s Pantry on Eastern Michigan University’s campus in Ypsilanti. Over 30% of U-M students, and over 46% of EMU students experience some level of food insecurity.

West Michigan

Feeding America West Michigan

Provides food through a network of partner agencies and its own programs, including retail food rescue and mobile food pantries. 

Meals on Wheels Western Michigan

Offers food assistance, particularly for seniors. Clients can register to shop for groceries at the pantry. 

Food Bank Council of Michigan

A network that includes food banks like Feeding America West Michigan and Manna Food Project.

Family Network of Wyoming: A local food pantry for residents in Wyoming. 

North Kent Connect: A resource center with a food pantry in Rockford. 

Northwest Michigan

• Mecosta County Pantries

  • God’s Helping Hands Pantry in Remus, 989-967-8581
  • Project Starburst in Big Rapids, 231-796-5342
  • Manna Pantry of Big Rapids, 231-408-2940

  Clare County Pantries

  • Clare County Food Pantry in Clare, 989-229-0849
  • Clare County Senior Services, 989-539-8870
  • Compassion Counts Food Pantry in Harrison, 989-539-1445

  Osceola County Pantries

  • Marion Food Pantry, 231-743-6801
  • Sears Food Pantry, 231-620-2504

  Lake County Pantries

  • Bread of Life Food Pantry, (231) 349-8269 

Metro Detroit

Gleaners Community Food Bank

Gleaners works with organizations around metro Detroit to provide food to nearly 400 partner soup kitchens, food patnries, shelters, schools and other agencies. They also offer direct service drive-up grocery distributions across the metro area.

Forgotten Harvest

Forgotten Harvest delivers 144,000 pounds of surplus food per day to local charities, helping organizations get food in the hands of those who need it. It also has a mobile pantry program to help get nutrition foods to food-insecure residents in high-poverty, under-served metro Detroit neighborhoods. 

United Way for Southeastern Michigan

United Way as a Feeding Eating and Succeeding Together (FEAST) program that teaches adults how to provide the structure and leadership children need to grow into healthy eaters. It also provides summer meals for children, breakfast initiatives and more.

Below are some answers to some of the common questions we have been recieving so far. In the next week or so we will be putting out a larger questionaire to our memberships to gain remaining questions and concerns. 

Additionally, a virtual space has been created for behavioral health providers to share what they know, ask questions, and to connect. If you are interested in joining the Facebook group, please click here (Michigan Medicaid Collab).

✯ Michigan Mental Health Framework✯

Sent by MMHCA - October 2025

Dear MMHCA Members,

As part of our ongoing advocacy on your behalf, MMHCA submitted questions to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) through Representative Dievendorf regarding upcoming changes to serving clients with Medicaid. These questions were collected from MMHCA members, online groups, and board discussions.

We recently received a response document from MDHHS, which we are sharing directly with you (attached). While some of the answers are more detailed than others, we believe it is important that you have access to the full document as originally provided. 

In addition, we encourage you to review the following resources shared by MDHHS for further clarification:

E-mail update from MDHHS 9/30/25: https://docs.google.com/document/d/14Dou5r_migxjBju72JO3krTJZtOL1Hw0stFQB5T_ja8/mobilebasic

MIHealthyLife: https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/mihealthylife/mental-health-framework

FAQ Document (9/25/25) https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/-/media/Project/Websites/mdhhs/Assistance-Programs/Medicaid-BPHASA/Other-Prov-Specific-Page-Docs/20250925---MHF-FAQs.pdf

We remain committed to advocating for our profession and ensuring you have the most up-to-date information available. Thank you for continuing to raise your questions and concerns as your voices guide our work.

Following are the questions we asked and the answers we received.

If a provider in private practice has a client who meets the new SMI criteria, will they be able to continue seeing that client? 

MDHHS does not seek to change which providers deliver mental health care to Medicaid enrollees through the Mental Health Framework (MHF). Instead, the MHF is about increasing payer accountability and bringing more of an enrollee’s mental health care under one payer. Under current policy, PIHPs are responsible for authorizing and covering outpatient mental health care for enrollees with SMI. The MHF reinforces that responsibility, clarifying through a new MDHHS indicator which enrollees have a higher level of mental health need (as determined through standardized assessment) and ensuring PIHPs assume coverage responsibility for all of the mental health care for those enrollees. MHPs will be responsible for most mental health care for enrollees with lower levels of mental health need or who have not yet been assessed. 

Private practice providers that have contracted exclusively with MHPs will be able to continue serving enrollees identified as having higher levels of mental health need through two channels:  

1. By joining the PIHP’s network; or 
2. Under Transition of Care policy, which enables enrollees to continue seeing providers with whom they have an established relationship but who are not in their payer’s network for at least 12 months following coverage responsibility change.  

If so, how do they contract with PIHPs, given no clear contracting/credentialing process exists?

Providers who are interested in contracting with PIHPs in the future should contact the PIHP directly. MDHHS aims to provide support to payers and providers, including MHP and PIHP providers to facilitate new or modified contracting for FY 2027. 

If not, will MCOs/Medicaid bill PIHPs on behalf of providers so care is not disrupted?

Not applicable. As noted above, private practice providers have multiple channels for continuing to serve patients with higher levels of mental health need. MDHHS will not bill PIHPs for care, nor does it expect MHPs to bill PIHPs for care. 

If a provider is not trained in MichiCANS or LOCUS by October 1st, will they be unable to bill Medicaid?

No. MDHHS understands that not all mental health providers will have completed the required LOCUS and MichiCANS trainings by October 1, 2025 and anticipates that it will take time over the course of FY 2026, for all applicable providers to complete such trainings. A provider’s training status will not impact their ability to bill Medicaid for mental health care services rendered, though providers should complete required trainings as soon as possible. Providers should refer to the Mental Health Framework website for more information on how to access available trainings free of charge.   

If so, what happens to their clients in the meantime, especially high-risk or suicidal clients?

Not applicable. See above response.

When will LOCUS trainings be offered, in what format, and how much time will providers need to block off from client care?

LOCUS training will be available as an online, self-paced course that will take approximately five hours to complete. The training will be launched by October 2025, with applicable providers encouraged to complete the training as early as possible. MDHHS is providing the training free of charge to providers, and providers may be able to access continuing education credit.  

Why have MichiCANS trainings been capped and why are remote trainings limited to 75 participants, despite thousands needing certification in weeks?

MDHHS is working with its training vendor, which sets the participant cap, to extend capacity as much as possible over the next several months. MDHHS will be making additional MichiCANS training available on a continuous basis moving forward. MDHHS understands that not all mental health providers will have completed the required LOCUS and MichiCANS trainings by October 1, 2025 and anticipates that it will take time, over the course of FY 2026, for all applicable providers to complete such trainings. 

After completing MichiCANS/LOCUS, where are assessments supposed to be submitted?

Providers who have completed the required MichiCANS training will access the MichiCANS Screener tool through CareConnect360 (CC360), either through existing CMHSP access to CC360 or through MILogin. Upon completion of the MichiCANS Screener, scores will be automatically transmitted to MDHHS via CC360.  

Currently, most CMHSPs access and submit the LOCUS tool through their EHRs; CMHSP providers can continue to use this functionality in the future. Non-CMHSP providers who have completed the required LOCUS training will be given access to a web-based platform managed by the State’s LOCUS vendor.

Providers can access the LOCUS tool and submit results through this secure web-based platform.  

Will there be a central system?

Aggregate score and date of assessment will be housed in the MDHHS data warehouse upon transmission from CC360, the external LOCUS vendor, or the CMHSP EHR.  

What HIPAA/data protection standards will apply?

MichiCANS data for both the Screener and the Comprehensive, the data is stored in the MDHHS Data Warehouse. The Data Warehouse is encrypted using the latest standards in encryption technology, this is for both data at rest and in transit. The MDHHS data warehouse cannot be accessed outside the State of Michigan network. There are various levels of access and authentication in place. All non-State of Michigan employees will need to have advanced authentication methods in place to access the data warehouse. Access to data is managed through a process of assigning specific data sets to user roles. In this role-based method of granting access, the State of Michigan can limit access in a very detailed manner. A web-based system is utilized in authorizing access to data, called the Database Security Application (DSA) and that system also automatically requires annual recertification of access and will drop user access for non-use of the application. The DSA abides by HIPAA requirements for treatment, payment, and health care operations. The MDHHS Data Warehouse also protects data per 42 CFR Part II and the Michigan Mental Health Code. 

For the LOCUS assessment, providers will only have access to submit an assessment. They will not be able to view any information on an enrollee/their previous assessments. The only information viewable will be the composite score and the date the assessment was conducted, which will be visible in CHAMPS, which providers must go through a process to obtain access to. All privacy and security rules will be followed in contracts with the LOCUS vendor.

How will billing work once payer responsibility shifts away from insurance companies to PIHPs or other organizations, given there is currently no mechanism for providers to bill?

To be clear, starting in FY 2027, payer responsibility for mental health care will be based on an enrollee’s level of mental health need as determined by standardized assessment (or whether the enrollee is in a 1915(c) Home and Community-Based Services waiver (CWP, HSW, SED) or 1915(i) State Plan Behavioral Health benefit), where PIHPs will be responsible for the mental health of enrollees with higher levels of mental health need or who are in a waiver or State Plan Behavioral Health benefit, and MHPs will be responsible the mental health of all other enrollees. This means that, for certain enrollees, MHPs will be responsible for some services they do not cover today (e.g., some services provided by CMHSPs and downstream providers) and, for certain enrollees, PIHPs will be responsible for services they do not pay for today (e.g., outpatient mental health services provided by non-CMHSP providers).  

Providers should enter into contracts with the appropriate plan(s),be it PIHP or MHP in their area depending on the services they provide and new coverage policies in effect in FY 2027. Providers should bill for services rendered in accordance with their agreements with such plans and with MDHHS policy and guidance.  

Note: There are no MHF-related coverage responsibility changes in effect for FY 2026.

MDHHS has said there will be a standardized referral process, but no details have been provided. How will this work, and will all providers be required to participate?

In FY 2026, MHPs, PIHPs, CMHSPs and other providers will be expected to use a standardized process when it becomes available for making referrals for mental health care across MHP and PIHP delivery systems (e.g., a referral from an MHP-network mental health provider to a CMHSP, or a referral from a CMHSP to an MHP-network mental health provider). MDHHS is releasing a Standardized Mental Health Referrals Guide that will provide more information on:  

• Providers’ need to conduct a “warm handoff” (i.e., connecting patients they are referring to a receiving provider/practice by phone) when making mental health referrals across delivery systems;  
• Use of a standardized referral form and process, to be collaborated upon with plan and provider input over the course of FY 2026;    
• Use of a CC360 referrals module for information sharing and tracking referral status across plan and provider type (available at no cost to plans or providers); and 
• MHPs’ need to proactively monitor mental health referrals for all of their enrollees based on information in the CC360 referrals module. 

Recognizing that guidance and the CC360 referrals module are still being shared and that it will take time for plans and providers to integrate the new process into their systems, adoption of the standardized referral process will be required for plans and providers only after they gain access to the CC360 module. MDHHS expects that this will occur for MHPs, PIHPs and CMHSPs in October 2025 and for other providers in early 2026. MDHHS will be open to feedback from plans and providers alike on the tool, module and overall process as implementation rolls out, over the course of FY 2026.  

What protections are in place to ensure Medicaid clients do not experience treatment gaps on October 1st due to provider disenrollment or training backlogs?

As noted above, MDHHS understands that not all mental health providers will have completed the required LOCUS and MichiCANS trainings by October 1, 2025 and anticipates that it will take time, over the course of FY 2026 for all applicable providers to complete such trainings. Consequently, a provider’s training status will not impact their ability to bill Medicaid for mental health care services rendered, though providers should complete required trainings as soon as possible.  

Further, MDHHS does not anticipate provider disenrollment as a result of the MHF and seeks to provide support to providers, as needed, to facilitate any new or modified contracting between plans and providers due to FY 2027 coverage responsibility changes. To further protect against treatment gaps, in FY 2027, MDHHS’ Transition of Care policy will require that enrollees be able to continue seeing mental health providers with whom they have an established relationship but who are not in their payer’s network for at least 12 months following coverage responsibility change as a result of the MHF.  

Note: There are no MHF-related coverage responsibility changes in effect for FY 2026.

What are the requirements when a patient has:

• Primary commercial insurance + secondary Medicaid?

Mental Health Framework only applies to individual enrolled with a Medicaid Health Plan, individuals with commercial HMO or PPO coverage cannot be enrolled in a Health Plan so this would not impact those members.  In the few cases individuals with insurance that do not fit under these categories, the plans would follow the rules of the primary insurance. 

• Primary Medicare + secondary Medicaid?

Medicare eligibles are a voluntary population, but the same rules in terms of following Medicare as primary would be in effect.

Long-term Concerns

Why are mild conditions (mild depression, adjustment disorders, ADHD, generalized anxiety disorder) included in the SMI list, when these are among the most common and least severe diagnoses?

MDHHS is not clear what “SMI list” being referred to in this question. 

How will shifting the majority of Medicaid clients into CMH systems, already overburdened, avoid disenfranchising beneficiaries and lowering quality of care?

The MHF will not be shifting the majority of Medicaid enrollees into the CMH systems. The FY 2027 changes in coverage responsibility should not affect which providers deliver mental health services nor how care is provided. As noted above, MDHHS expects both MHPs and PIHPs to expand their provider networks to ensure their enrollees have sufficient access to care. To further ensure there is no disruption in care, MDHHS’ Transition of Care policy will require plans to cover allow enrollees to continue seeing providers with whom they have an established relationship but who are not in their network for at least 12 months following coverage responsibility change.  

What protections will ensure underserved groups (people of color, rural Michiganders, LGBTQ+ individuals) are not disproportionately harmed by these changes?

Mental Health Framework changes do not cause harm to any enrollees. Expanding access to mental health assessments and accountability for referrals across systems for mental health care will improve the care experience for all enrollees, including those underserved categories referenced. The LOCUS and MichiCANS formalize the assessment process which can be applied consistently to all populations.  

Providers report MichiCANS takes 45–90 minutes and LOCUS 30–60 minutes, but reimbursement is only $20. How were these rates calculated, and do they reflect real workload?

MDHHS expects providers to incorporate the MichiCANS Screener (for children and youth) and LOCUS (for adults) into their existing assessment practices; how providers do this is up to each provider/practice. MDHHS and its actuary, Milliman, have been engaging providers across the State on assessment practices to inform their development of a forthcoming “comparison rate report,” that will provide benchmark market data on provider costs associated with submitting the MichiCANS Screener and LOCUS. This report is intended to assist providers and MHPs in negotiating appropriate rates for the added task of submitting these State-designated assessment tools in accordance with State requirements—to supplement the rates that providers can bill today for conducting mental health assessments/evaluations. Of note, the draft comparison rates that Milliman shared with providers this summer included rates that varied by provider type and all were above $20. Milliman’s forthcoming report will articulate the methodology and assumptions used. 

Did MDHHS consider how low reimbursement plus new burdens may push providers to stop accepting Medicaid?

See above.  

How will this impact limited licensed providers who rely on Medicaid clients for supervised hours, potentially worsening the workforce shortage?

The MHF does not change the scope of practice for limited licensed providers. Limited licensed providers may continue delivering services, including standardized assessments, under supervision by a fully licensed provider of the same profession. 

Will CMHs ultimately take over contracting rights for all Medicaid clients?

PIHPs are responsible for their provider networks.

If so, will community providers be forced into subcontractor (1099) roles with CMH, reducing reimbursement?

Not applicable. See the response above.

How will MDHHS prevent this from worsening wait times and reducing access to specialty care?

Not applicable. See response above. MDHHS will hold both PIHPs and MHPs accountable for ensuring timely and adequate access to routine and specialty mental health care and will be closely monitoring such access throughout MHF implementation and under the new PIHP contracts. 

What steps will MDHHS take to provide clear, accessible, and timely information about policy rollouts in the future, given the current confusion and provider drop-offs?

MDHHS will release Standardized Assessment and Referral Guides with additional information on the MHF policies and requirements effective for FY 2026. Prior to FY 2027, MDHHS will release a comprehensive MHF Policy Bulletin related to coverage responsibility changes.  

Stakeholders are encouraged to routinely visit MDHHS’ Mental Health Framework website, which will be the primary venue for communication with stakeholders for updates, meeting announcements, links to relevant policy documents, and FAQ responses.

Is this restructuring primarily designed to channel Medicaid dollars into CMH systems at the expense of patients and independent providers? 

No. The MHF is intended to clarify and increase payer accountability and bring more of an enrollee’s mental health care under one plan. As is noted above, the FY 2027 changes in coverage responsibility should not affect which providers deliver mental health services nor how care is provided.

If you have questions please email us at MMHCABOARD@MMHCANOW.ORG.

In Service,

MMHCA’s Board of Directors

Christopher DeBoer, President

Krystin Sankey, Treasurer

Carol Berger, Secretary

Members at Large:

Dr. Stephanie Burns

Dr. Joy Creel

David Flowers

Dr. Katherine James

Dr. Larry Pfaff

Lauri Rowe

Amy Szaraz

Dr. Elizabeth Teklinski

Steve Wheeler

CONTACT: Erin Stover, stovere@michigan.gov

MDHHS instructed by USDA to temporarily pause issuance of November SNAP benefits

LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) received communication from the federal government’s Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) indicating that due to the ongoing federal government funding lapse, there may be limited availability of funds to pay full November Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits for approximately 42 million individuals across the nation. FNS has unfortunately directed MDHHS to hold November SNAP issuance and ongoing benefits until further notice. 

The federal government’s delay of SNAP benefits will place Michiganders at risk of food insecurity and poverty. SNAP, a critical program for families and individuals across Michigan to access food, is the nation’s largest food assistance program and one of the most effective tools to reduce food insecurity. Nearly 13% of Michigan households, approximately 1.4 million people, receive SNAP benefits. About 43% are families with children and 36% are families with members who are older adults or disabled.

“The impact of households losing SNAP benefits will be felt around the state,” said Elizabeth Hertel, MDHHS director. “SNAP is more than a food assistance program; it’s a lifeline for many Michigan families. It helps families put nutritious food on the table, supports local farmers and grocers, and strengthens our communities and economy. We are strongly disappointed by the USDA’s decision to delay this assistance, and in Michigan we will do what we can to help blunt this impact.”

SNAP participants should reach out to their local MDHHS office with any questions regarding their SNAP benefits or check MI Bridges for updates.

To find additional resources:

• Dial 2-1-1 or visit Find Help - Michigan 2-1-1 for free, confidential assistance and referrals to local food programs and support services.
• Visit the Food Bank Council of Michigan to locate nearby food banks and learn about additional hunger relief efforts. 

How SNAP works

FNS administers SNAP at the federal level with states operating the program at the local level, determining eligibility and issuing benefits to eligible households.  

SNAP benefits are provided on electronic benefit transfer (EBT) cards that participants can use to purchase food at grocery and convenience stores, farmers markets and other retailers, circulating money directly into the food supply chain and other retail sectors. SNAP spending generates revenue for grocery stores, farmers and other businesses, which helps pay local wages, keeps shelves stocked and boosts the local economy.  

SNAP helps lift families out of poverty by allowing them to spend money that would otherwise have been used for food on other goods and services, including health-related activities. A 2021 study showed that infants and children in SNAP families are more likely to see a doctor for periodic check-ups. Additionally, older adults using SNAP are more likely to take the full dosage of prescription medications because they have enough income to afford food and medicine, compared to other older adults not participating in SNAP.  

According to new economic analysis from the National Grocers Association, SNAP funding supports approximately 388,000 jobs, more than $20 billion in direct wages, resulting in over $4.5 billion in state and federal tax revenue.  

SNAP in Michigan

In FY 2024, the average SNAP household in Michigan received $335.03 in SNAP benefits per month, which is about $173 per person per month or $5.68 per person per day. Households with very low incomes receive more SNAP benefits than households closer to the poverty line because they need more help affording nutritious food.  

• 492,225 children benefit from SNAP.

• 38,513 veterans participating in SNAP. 

• 36% SNAP households have older adults. 

• 43% SNAP households have children. 

• 51% households have a person with a disability.  

• 78% of SNAP households include someone with earned income. 

In Michigan, more than 9,700 retailers accept SNAP. In 2023, retailers redeemed over $3.6 million in SNAP.  

To be eligible for SNAP in Michigan, applicants must be a U.S. citizen (or acceptable non-citizen status) and must live in Michigan. Eligibility is based on the financial situation of all members of a household. Everyone who lives together, purchases and prepares food together is considered a member of the same household group. In order to determine if a household is eligible for SNAP, MDHHS will review a household’s expenses, assets and income. Expenses include rent, mortgage, utility bills, child support and dependent care expenses. For individuals with a disability or who are at least 60 years old, medical care, medical supplies and health insurance premiums may be included as an expense. 

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• SNAP November benefits.pdf

Vanessa Howard, a Master of Social Work student at Capella University, was selected as the MSW award recipient. Vanessa’s academic excellence and extensive experience working with justice-involved youth, survivors of domestic violence, and underserved populations reflect her deep dedication to building trauma-informed, culturally responsive systems of care. Her leadership embodies the values of social work and the ongoing fight for equity and representation across Michigan. Vanessa is also serving as a Student Ambassador for the NASW-Michigan Chapter in 2025.

Kate Greif, a Bachelor of Social Work student at Hope College, was named the BSW award recipient. Kate has demonstrated exceptional leadership and advocacy through her work with Hope’s LGBTQIA+ organization Prism, Special Olympics, and campus ASL and accessibility initiatives. Her efforts to increase inclusion and representation for queer and disabled individuals exemplify the next generation of compassionate, justice-driven social workers.

Both recipients will be recognized during NASW-Michigan’s 2025 Virtual Legislative Education and Advocacy Day (LEAD) on Thursday, October 16, 2025.

“Each year, we are inspired by the creativity, compassion, and courage of social work students across Michigan,” said Duane Breijak, LMSW, Executive Director of NASW-Michigan. “Vanessa and Kate reflect the heart of our profession—using their education, lived experience, and advocacy to create meaningful change in our state. We are proud to invest in their future as we know their impact will be tremendous”

The NASW-Michigan Student Leadership in Diversity Scholarship supports emerging social workers who demonstrate outstanding leadership in promoting diversity, cultural awareness, and social justice through service, research, and advocacy.

For more information about NASW-Michigan scholarships and programs, visit www.nasw-michigan.org/scholarships.