Category Archives: Community Health

Growing Hope: H.O.P.E. Gardens provides essential food and resources for Wyoming families

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Growing Dreams: A New Community Garden for Families & Neighbors (Video courtesy of H.O.P.E. Gardens)


By AnchorPoint Christian School Youth Contributors


AnchorPoint students help plant garlic in the new garden (Courtesy, Kim Omanchi APCS)

H.O.P.E. Gardens stands for Help Other People Eat. Located in Grand Rapids, H.O.P.E. Gardens is dedicated to making a positive change in local communities by helping families and individuals grow their own food.

Teaching community members how to cultivate fresh and sustainable food resources gives individuals and families better access to nutritious and affordable food.

Originally founded in 2004 by Byron Center resident Gary Lemke, H.O.P.E. Gardens has since expanded to educate Wyoming organizations and other local communities on the importance of sustainable food resources.

Family Network of Wyoming (FNW) has partnered with H.O.P.E. Gardens to provide that resource for local families.

“When we have gardens, and when we have access to fresh fruits and vegetables, it helps impact health,” said Javonte Tubbs, Executive Director at Family Network of Wyoming.

“If you eat healthy fruits and vegetables all day, you’re going to be in great health. Fresh fruits and vegetables have a lot of nutrients and vitamins and good things for your body.”

Realizing a dream, meeting a need

AnchorPoint Christian School – in collaboration with FNW, H.O.P.E. Gardens Executive Director Julie Brunson, and Express Employment Professionals & Specialized Recruiting Group of Grand Rapids owner Janis Petrini – recently helped install a no-till nature-based garden in Wyoming.

(Courtesy, Kim Omanchi APCS)

This garden came to fruition as a way to honor Theresa Drost, a valued employee of Express Pros who recently passed away.

“Theresa’s passion was having a garden and a beautification place around the garden,” said Tubbs. “Janis and Julie got together to find a location to have a garden in memory of Theresa. Family Network of Wyoming had the space and wanted to do a garden as well. It was a perfect partnership.”

That dream was realized as AnchorPoint students prepared the land to begin a new garden where local families will come together to grow food and community.

(Courtesy, Kim Omanchi APCS)

“The Kent County Needs Assessment states that one out of six adults experiences food insecurity,” said Tubbs. “That means we need more community gardens, we need more access to healthy fruits and vegetables. Pantries and gardens are places that provide that access.”

Tubbs says there will be people from the community who come to help plant the food, and who will also receive some of that food for their families. And Tubbs plans to join in the fun.

“I love to help,” Tubbs said. “What makes people want to help is a sense of community, a sense of togetherness.”

Butterfly gardens and toad houses – both excellent contributors to the environment – can also be found at H.O.P.E. Gardens.

A willingness to help

Tubbs joined FNW in October of 2023 and said he enjoys both the people and the work.

(Courtesy, Kim Omanchi APCS)

“I like Julie and H.O.P.E. Gardens because they have a passion to connect people with healthy fruit and vegetables,” said Tubbs.

“My favorite part of working at Family Network is the volunteers,” Tubbs continued. “Their passion to help, their willingness to be there, to be present, and to be there with smiles. There is a lot of great energy there; everybody is willing to help.”

Growing food…and passion!

H.O.P.E. Gardens is making a change that begins with our youth and fostering a passion for growing food through interactive, eco-friendly learning experiences.

That passion is evident in the students at AnchorPoint. These local students will continue helping with the FNW garden by planting seeds in the spring and participating in the harvest.

(Courtesy, Kim Omanchi APCS)

Resource links

For more information about H.O.P.E. Gardens, visit hopegardensgr.org. To learn more about the Family Network of Wyoming, visit fntw.org.

*View the “Growing Dreams” garden photo gallery below, courtesy of Kim Omanchi, APCS:

  • AnchorPoint students are welcomed and receive instruction on how to begin the new garden (Courtesy, Kim Omanchi APCS)
  • Students begin laying the foundation for the garden (Courtesy, Kim Omanchi APCS)
  • (Courtesy, Kim Omanchi APCS)
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  • Students receive instruction on how to plant garlic (Courtesy, Kim Omanchi APCS)
  • Students plant garlic in the new garden (Courtesy, Kim Omanchi APCS)
  • Students plant garlic in the new garden (Courtesy, Kim Omanchi APCS)
  • Students enjoyed donuts after their hard work (Courtesy, Kim Omanchi APCS)

Contributors

This article was written and produced by the 3rd-4th grade students of Wyoming’s AnchorPoint Christian School under the direction of Team 2 teacher Kim Omanchi.

Team 2: Henry Bloomer, Elijah Ducher, Henrik Gagnon, Leonard Gagnon, Jaxon Glas, Logan Henderson, Toby Lehnen, Alan Perez, Nathan Simeon, Joseph Vasquez and Kareen Zuiderveen

December mobile food pantry dates/locations in Wyoming and Kentwood

Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Food, Going Local, Health, Kent County, Upcoming Events, West Michigan, , , , ,
(Courtesy, Feed America West Michigan)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


Feeding America West Michigan (FAWM) works to provide a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, dairy products and baked goods to people in need of emergency food at no cost.

The Mobile Pantry schedule may be updated or changed at any time, so please check often for updates.

Unless otherwise noted, all Mobile Pantries are scheduled in Eastern Standard Time.

Information on additional food resources can be found in map form on the FAWM Resource Map. If you have questions about a specific Mobile Pantry, please contact the host agency.

Many Mobile Food Pantry sites will allow you to pick up food as a proxy (stand-in) for another household that cannot physically attend. You will need to be prepared to provide the name, address and household size of any other family you are picking up for. Most Mobile Pantry sites have a limit on how many households you can pick up for and should tell you that limit if you ask.

Dec. 19, 2024 – Thursday (Wyoming)

5 p.m. – (Walk Up), Calvary Christian Reformed Church, 3500 Byron Center Ave. SW, Wyoming, MI 49519

Dec. 21, 2024 – Saturday (Wyoming)

10 a.m. – (Drive Thru), Community CRC, 150 Burt St. SE, Wyoming, MI 49548

Dec. 28, 2024 – Saturday (Kentwood)

9 a.m. – (Drive Thru), St. Mary Magdalen Church, 1253 52nd Street, Kentwood, MI 49508

*For more Kent County mobile food pantry dates and locations, click here.

Wyoming PD receives heartfelt thank you from community and iCI Nation

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Community members took turns verbally expressing gratitude for Wyoming police officers and their service to the community (Courtesy, iCI Nation)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


Wyoming police officers were the recipients of heartfelt appreciation and gratitude from community members on Thursday, Dec. 12.

While snow, wind and ice descended upon West Michigan – closing numerous schools and forcing many residents to work from home – Wyoming police officers donned uniforms and reported for duty.

As officers filed into the police station at 7 a.m. for a routine training session, they were met by 15 community members who took turns verbally expressing gratitude for the officers’ service to the community.

WPD officers listen as presentation participants share their personal ties to the law enforcement community (Courtesy, iCI Nation)

Coordinated by iCI Nation founder Jennifer Franson and sponsored by W2W Healthy You, the Christmas Connect presentation featured a hot breakfast prepared by Wyoming Police Chief Kim Koster, Captain Eric Wiler, and Captain Tim Pols, as well as over several dozen donuts from Marge’s Donut Den.

“In the spirit of the season, we get to lead with peace and goodwill,” said Franson in supplied material.

Voicing gratitude

In a show of love and support, local community members – including residents, pastors, media professionals, nonprofit leaders, and more – honored the gathered police officers by each voicing an individual thank you, sharing personal ties to the law enforcement community, and praying over the officers before leaving.

(Courtesy, iCI Nation)

“All of these people came here, in this weather, because they understand and appreciate everything you do,” Franson told the WPD officers during the presentation. “We know that you all are going out and dealing with things every day that we don’t want to have to deal with.”

(Courtesy, iCI Nation)

Franson went on to say that it is important for local law enforcement officers to know that the community recognizes and supports their work as they put their lives on the line each day to keep our community safe.

“We want you to know that we’ve got your back,” one community member told WPD officers during the presentation.

Strengthening our cities

iCI Nation has been building successful partnerships between community and law enforcement since 2016. The local nonprofit is dedicated to providing a healthy environment that brings citizens, police officers and organizational resources together to create a stronger and healthier city.

“ICI reignites police hearts and passion for the mission of protecting and serving,” says Wyoming Police Chief Kim Koster. (iCI Nation website)

  • Javon Sanders (front) of the GRPD talks with WPD officers (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
  • Tracy, W2W Healthy You Lead Education Instructor, explains to officers how their work positively impacts youth (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
  • (Courtesy, iCI Nation)
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Those connections are forged through monthly iCI Nation events for the community and police, including prayer gatherings for the faith community, presentations, and lunch and learns. The organization also builds collaborations through various local organizations and events.

Craig G. Founder of the PeaceWalker Project says, “The difference that iCI has made in this community is nothing short of extraordinary.” (iCI Nation website)

Learn more about iCI Nation and how you can help honor local law enforcement here.

(Courtesy, iCI Nation)

MVH Wish List: Support veterans this holiday season by providing needed items

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By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


For individuals and organizations looking to make a difference in the lives of veterans this holiday season, consider supporting Michigan Veteran Homes’ Holiday Wish Lists which highlight much-needed items to help veteran members this holiday season.

Donation details

Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids (MVHGR) is seeking monetary donations to support the charitable support fund which is used to enhance the quality of life for veteran members.

Monetary donations can be made at Support MVH or checks can be written to MVHGR and mailed to 2950 Monroe Ave. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49505. Please indicate the fund designation “Charitable Support Fund” in the memo section of the check.

A MVH Wish List delivery is made possible by donations from the community (Courtesy, MVH)

The Home is also seeking in-kind donations such as Go!Bus ADA tickets, postage stamps, snacks and adult fishing poles (please limit to four).

Donation drop-off and online options

For more information or to coordinate a time to drop off in-kind donations, please contact Volunteer and Donations Coordinator Gretchen Muir at muirg@michigan.gov or 616-840-3001.

Updated wish list items and donation tips may be viewed online at MVHGR Holiday Wish List. You can also direct ship requested items from the Home’s Amazon Wish List.

Strengthening our cities: iCI Nation builds bridges between community and local law enforcement

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iCI Nation founder Jennifer Franson (second from left) has spent the last decade building bridges between community and law enforcement (Courtesy, iCI Nation)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


First responders connect with community members at Resurrection Fellowship Church (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

iCI Nation has been building successful partnerships between community and law enforcement since 2016. The local nonprofit is dedicated to providing a healthy environment that brings citizens, police officers and organizational resources together to create a stronger and healthier city.

Leading that mission is iCI Nation Founder and Executive Director Jennifer Franson.

“We’re building relationships and trust between cops and community to strengthen the city,” said Franson. “That’s our mission. We’re building the connections and we’re building the bridges over the shared value of how we protect and serve together.

“It’s really just a reframing of value,” Franson continued. “Our shared value of how we protect and serve together.”

iCI Nation board member BJ (Barbara) VanStee agreed. “We support the community, we support the officers, and we try to bring them together and show our appreciation for all that they do for the community.”

A way to do more

Though Franson does not have a personal family connection to law enforcement, she has always been aware of the officers who put their lives on the line each day to keep our community safe.

Kentwood police officers connect with youth in the Kentwood Young Life group (Courtesy, iCI Nation)

For years, Franson prayed for law enforcement officers whenever she heard sirens, believing that was all she could do for them.

A women’s church group discussion regarding community connections prompted Franson to suggest hosting a “thank you” event for law enforcement. Franson emailed police chiefs at several local departments, requesting participation. Thirteen officers from five different departments attended.

However, as Franson met the officers at the event venue, an unexpected complication arose as she explained what was about to happen.

A Kentwood officer talks with a Kentwood Young Life youth (Courtesy, iCI Nation)

“You’re going to go in to lights, music, and a standing ovation from the women,” Franson told the officers. “We’re going to tell you why we appreciate you, have kids do a song and dance, pray over you and have cookies and coffee.”

The officers asked what they needed to do.

Franson explained the process again.

Again, the officers asked what they needed to do.

Franson finally asked, “What aren’t you getting? Don’t you get invited by the community just to say thank you?”

The answer was a resounding no; law enforcement officers were only invited by communities to talk about neighborhood or policy issues.

Franson was stunned – and determined to launch a community-wide change.

Generating change – without an agenda

The church event became an annual occurrence, increasing from those original 13 officers to an average of 65 officers each year.

“Our biggest year we had 95 officers there from over 20 different departments,” said Franson. “Our normal average got up to about 65.”

During a Faith & Blue event, Grand Rapids SWAT and local youth connected during a basketball game hosted by Rev. Darryl S. Gaddy Sr. of Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church (Courtesy, Pastor Gaddy)

The reason it grew, Franson continued, was due to trust.

“It built trust with the police community once they realized we didn’t have any agenda,” said Franson.

Though the women prayed over the police officers, the main event activity was presenting each department with a banner saying, Thank you to our protectors.

“All the women signed it and wrote personal notes on it,” said Franson. “And that was it. There was never any other agenda other than to thank them, and that really made an impact.”

Local youth keep the GR SWAT team on their toes during the game at Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church (Courtesy, Pastor Gaddy)

The women began taking prayerful ownership of the police, and the officers began trusting the women.

“It was like a community becoming a family,” Franson said. “Somehow these ‘crazy church women’ made a difference.”

Franson became known as “Police Jen” by the community, often looked to for information about local law enforcement happenings.

For almost a decade, iCI Nation has provided a healthy environment for the community to build trust with law enforcement as they unite in their efforts to protect and serve local cities.

iCI Nation founder Jennifer Franson (left) prepares to spread good news on camera (Courtesy, iCI Nation)

iCI Nation hosts monthly events for the community and police, including prayer gatherings for the faith community, presentations, and lunch and learns. The organization also builds collaborations through various local organizations and events such as the national Faith & Blue campaign.

Franson then spreads the good news of these collaborations through a weekly email, social media and videos.

Building understanding through appreciation

Franson and VanStee both believe that showing appreciation for law enforcement is vital to officers understanding that the community knows and appreciates what they do.

First responders were treated to a Thanksgiving luncheon hosted by Pastor Gary Hankins at Resurrection Fellowship Church (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

“We pray for them quite frequently,” says VanStee. “I am thankful for all that the officers do in the community to keep us safe.”

Building credibility with the law officers is also essential.

“We build credibility that the officers sent to our event will feel safe,” says Franson. “I want to honor them for agreeing to be the venue for this [collaboration].”

Learn more about iCI Nation and how you can help honor local law enforcement here.

“Nobody asked me”: How to have holiday conversations with aging family members

Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Health, Holidays, How-To's, Kent County, Mental Health, Senior Living, West Michigan, , , , , , , ,
Holiday celebrations can lead to tough conversations about the decline in mental and physical health of elderly parents or grandparents (Courtesy, pxhere.com)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


The elderly may be resistant to hearing concerns about their health (Courtesy, Adobe Stock)

Various changes take place as we age, many of them unwanted.

“Things happen to you [during aging], and they don’t happen on your terms,” says Rev. Howard C. Earle Jr., Chaplain and Director of Spiritual Care for Beacon Hill at Eastgate. “As we age, things start to happen – whether we want them to or not.”

For some, holiday celebrations are a time when family members measure the decline in mental and physical health of elderly parents or grandparents. That decline often leads to tough conversations such as: “Dad, it’s time to stop driving – for your safety and others” or “Mom, we don’t need you to host Christmas this year – come to dinner at our house and just enjoy.”

Though these well-intentioned conversations come from a place of caring, Earle says the elderly often do not hear it that way.

Nobody asked me…

Whether our bodies begin to break down and fail, our life partner dies, we slip and fall, or we simply can’t care for ourselves any longer, these changes are out of our control and often frustrating because they can mean having our independence abruptly taken away.

“There was no real outlet where there could be some real transparency and sense of community to process what [the elderly] feel,” says Earle.

Seeing the need for such an outlet, Earle began an ongoing weekly discussion series titled “Nobody Asked Me.”

Nobody Asked Me creates a safe space for Beacon Hill residents to share honestly with each other (Courtesy, iStock)

“We created this space where we could be totally honest about what we feel as we enter into these phases and seasons of life,” says Earle.

For the past two years, Earle has led various discussions on aging each Tuesday morning at 9:30 a.m. Residents talk through their feelings about changes that happen with aging, and feature topics such as health, grief, technology, activities…and holidays.

As we enter the holiday season, Earle is also conducting a special holiday series called Hope for the Holidays. “It’s the same concept,” says Earle. “It’s about processing what they feel regarding anything concerning life.”

Earle leads the discussion with “Nobody asked me…” and then follows it up with an issue such as “…if I wanted to give up my keys.” The discussion then revolves around all things connected to that experience.

A resonating resource 

(Courtesy, iStock)

Earle says the weekly discussions are one piece of Beacon Hill programming that has resonated with all residents and become a valuable resource.

Though Earle is a chaplain, he says Nobody Asked Me discussions are not faith-based, intentionally generating conversation from a life perspective.

“It doesn’t matter what your religion is, you get old,” says Earle. “Everybody gets old, and everybody feels some kind of way about getting old.”

Think before speaking

When asked what advice he would give to younger generations as they prepare for family celebrations, Earle says to be patient, intentional and considerate.

“Senior adults need to know that they still matter,” says Earle. “Be intentionally affirming but also be sensitive.”

Earle cautions against generalizing the elderly by labeling them mean or grumpy. Instead, be mindful of what it might feel like to not see or hear well, making it difficult to feel part of the surrounding conversations and festivities.

“Be as thoughtful as you can…and try to be open to what some of these realities are.”

Earle encourages residents to live life on their own terms by taking full advantage of all opportunities (Courtesy, Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)

Live life on your terms 

Each week, Earle reminds residents that they are alive – and encourages them to live life on their own terms by taking advantage of opportunities such as exploring, investing in new relationships and learning new things.

“Rather than thinking of senior living as waiting until you die, think of it as living until you do,” says Earle. “You get to decide what living will look like.

“Living is going to look different for every person, but some things are going to be fundamental: remain relational, stay engaged, don’t isolate, don’t withdraw, have fun, laugh, learn. Those are things that I believe enrich life and make life worth living.”

Wyoming breaks ground at future Godwin Mercado site on 36th Street

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Wyoming city officials broke ground at the future Godwin Mercado site, officially kicking off the start of construction (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Wyoming city officials reached a significant milestone as they broke ground at the future Godwin Mercado five-acre parcel of land on 36th Street.

“We are excited about this because it’s been in the works for so long, we weren’t sure it was going to come to pass,” says Wyoming Mayor Kent Vanderwood. “This is a great day.”

Godwin Mercado will be situated on the north side of the Site 36 Industrial Park.

Formerly a General Motors stamping plant, the 75-acre parcel of Site 36 was sold to commercial real estate investment company Franklin and Partners (FP) with an agreement that FP would help Wyoming develop a community marketplace on the north side.

After years of community, vendor and market research, Godwin Mercado is now under construction.

The Godwin Mercado groundbreaking took place Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2024 (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

“This has been something that residents have been asking for for years,” says Nicole Hofert, Director of Community and Economic Development for Wyoming. “To be standing here today and seeing the dirt moving and knowing that in eight months we’re delivering a promise to the community, I’m so excited right now.

“I’m very proud of the City of Wyoming team, all our partners and the ability to bring this to fruition after all this time.”

A community asset

City Manager John Shay says Godwin Mercado is part of the City’s [re]Imagined Wyoming.

“Our goal is to prioritize investments in the community that contribute to placemaking and strengthen Wyoming’s sense of identity,” says Shay, adding that this marketplace answers residents’ call for a community space to gather and hold private events.

An outdoor rendering of Godwin Mercado (Courtesy, City of Wyoming)

The 6,000-square-foot market space will provide year-round usage opportunities to support local vendors, seasonal farm and artisan markets, food trucks, community events and private events.

Market days will provide fresh and healthy food options with access to all food assistance currencies. This will fill key gaps in the area’s food system and help support the well-being of residents living in the Godwin Heights neighborhood and greater Grand Rapids area.

A rendering of the indoor event space at Godwin Mercado (Courtesy, City of Wyoming)

The Mercado space will also accommodate food education demonstrations, health and wellness programs, and more.

The marketplace will be easily accessible due to its walkable neighborhood location, the City’s reconfigured trail network, and its proximity to the highway and Silver Line bus route.

Celebrating culture

The name Godwin Mercado comes from extensive community input that included residents, community members and business leaders.

“We landed on a name that really connects us to this unique neighborhood and celebrates the community here in Wyoming,” said Krashawn Martin, Wyoming Director of Parks and Recreation.

Godwin Mercado is a celebration of the neighborhood’s rich heritage and thriving modern culture (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Godwin Mercado not only serves as a gathering space and point of pride for the greater Wyoming community, it honors the rich heritage and thriving modern culture of the neighborhood where it sits.

The story of Godwin Heights is one of perseverance, ingenuity and grit. Beginning in a one-room schoolhouse in 1867, Godwin Heights has become a thriving destination shaped by its melody of cultures.

Mayor Vanderwood hopes Godwin Mercado will create strong community bonds.

“We’re such a diverse community, and we feel it’s time we start giving recognition to that diversity,” says Mayor Vanderwood. “By naming it as part of this proud neighborhood of Godwin, and giving it the Hispanic market name of Mercado, we think it will draw from all across the city.”

True community development

Krawshawn Martin (left) visits with guests before the groundbreaking ceremony (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

“This project is really an example of true community development,” says Don Shoemaker of Franklin Partners. “We purchased this site from the City knowing that it was going to take a real community effort to get to this point.

“We’re really glad to be part of the team, and the City of Wyoming should be very proud of what they have accomplished here today because it really was a great community effort.”

Randy Thelen, President and CEO of The Right Place, agrees.

“This placemaking project with the market is going to help improve the quality of life of tens of thousands – if not hundreds of thousands – of people all across the region,” says Thelen.

“The partnership that brought this all together is powerful, and it allows for big things to happen. Our team is pleased to be a partner on this project throughout.”

It’s all about the people

State Rep. John Fitzgerald (left) greets Deputy City Manager Patrick Waterman (Courtesy, Deborah Reed)

Martin says the reaction from the community has been the driving force behind Godwin Mercado.

“The genuine excitement that Wyoming has about this project, it’s carried us through it,” says Martin. “People are just thrilled to see something happening after there being nothing here for so long.

“Feeling their excitement feeds our excitement and gets us where we need to go to make it happen. That’s what it’s all about – it’s about the people.”

Godwin Mercado

Godwin Mercado is funded in part by a $1.5 million contribution from real estate development firm Franklin Partners, assistance from The Right Place in securing a $450,000 RAP  2.0 grant from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, a $50,000 grant from Consumers Energy, and city funds from sale proceeds of Site 36.

Learn more about Godwin Mercado here.

Living by faith: Local author shares hope and life lessons through memoir, God Changed My Story

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Author Tanisha Franklin shares a message of faith and hope in her memoir, God Changed My Story (Courtesy, Tanisha Franklin)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


Local author Tanisha Franklin lives a life of faith – and is sharing her journey of faith and other life lessons through her book, God Changed My Story (GCMS).

“This is the story of my life, and I hope this will help someone learn that what they are going through is only for a season,” Franklin states in the introduction to God Changed My Story.

A call of change

Author Tanisha Franklin has set out on a journey of faith (Courtesy, Tanisha Franklin)

Born and raised in Grand Rapids, Franklin worked full-time jobs outside her home until 2020. In 2019, Franklin felt God calling her to quit her job and write her memoir. Though Franklin thought about writing a book for 20 years, she admitted she never had the courage to put pen to paper.

Franklin was nervous about not bringing in a steady income while juggling a mortgage and family expenses.

“It was difficult because I’ve never not worked,” said Franklin. “It wasn’t that I didn’t trust that my husband would take care of me, but I’ve always had my own income.”

Though she continued to feel God nudging her down a new path, Franklin stalled.

“I just kept beating around the bush,” said Franklin. “Then finally [God] gave me the specific date and said, ‘If you don’t quit your job by January 31, 2020, all these doors I have opened for you, I’m going to close, because you’re not trusting me.

“I decided to quit in 2020 to pursue writing my book.”

Little did she know her world was about to come crashing down.

A journey of heartbreak

On Oct. 28, 2020, Franklin’s 17-year-old son attempted to take his own life.

“I was just devastated,” said Franklin. “I didn’t know what to do, didn’t know where to turn.”

But Franklin was determined to get her son help. However, doctors prescribed anxiety medication without finding the true source of her son’s depression, and her son refused therapy.

During this time, Franklin found out her son had tried to end his life multiple times before.

Franklin was determined to help her son despite multiple medical roadblocks and shocking revelations (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

“He tried at 12, he tried multiple times at 15, and at this point he was 17 and tried multiple times,” said Franklin.

What followed was a heartbreaking journey of doctors and therapists, medication failures, a misdiagnosis, insurance concerns, additional suicide attempts – and the revelation that her son suffered abuse from his father at age 12.

Franklin was shocked. Though her relationship with her son’s father was abusive, she never thought he would abuse their son.

Desperate to find help, Franklin emailed yet another therapist. Before she could walk away from her computer, her phone rang. It was the therapist.

“I know it couldn’t be anybody but God,” said Franklin. “My son still sees him.”

Hitting rock bottom

Emotionally drained and fighting anxiety, Franklin began drinking wine after her children went to bed.

Franklin was unemployed and had pulled her 401K to pay their mortgage. Her husband was employed, but they were on a set budget. It felt, Franklin said, like everything was crashing down.

A medical emergency brought on by a mixture of wine, marijuana and her type 1 diabetes landed Franklin in the hospital and suffering from blackouts. Scared, Franklin began to pray.

“I heard God say, ‘You either have to be hot or cold. You have to be with me or the devil. You can’t be lukewarm.’”

Franklin realized she had not been trusting God to take care of her family or following the path God revealed to her. That needed to change, she said – and got to work.

Finding her path

In God Changed My Story, Franklin talks about her life as a child, as a single mother, a married woman and a mother. Franklin said many people feel like there is no “out” from their struggles, but she believes God is using her as a living testimony to say that isn’t true.

“Within the last year, I experienced God like no other,” said Franklin.

The book Franklin sat down to write became two…then three.

“I never had plans of writing the second book, and now there’s a third book,” said Franklin with a laugh.

“We can only go forward”

Franklin’s second book, God Changed My Story: After Healing, A New Beginning, talks about new beginnings after healing from past trauma.

“At the age of five, I was molested by a close family member,” Franklin revealed. “I held that secret for almost 30 years.”

Her parents divorced, her father disappearing from Franklin’s life shortly after. Believing her father chose to leave instead of protecting her, anger kept Franklin from seeking a relationship with him.

As an adult in search of healing from her past, Franklin finally communicated with her father. It was then Franklin learned her father was dying – and he wanted to make amends.

That conversation opened the door to a close relationship with her father before he passed two years later.

“When we’re stuck in our past, we can’t move forward or understand what God is trying to do. All these things that hurt me…it makes me stronger knowing that I can help somebody else.”

Franklin says God gives us one life – and we must live it. “We can’t go backward in time, we can only go forward.”

Opening doors for women

Franklin’s third book, God Changed My Story: I’m Not Superwoman, I’m A Good Woman, will be published by the new year – and is a devotional book for women.

“I’m talking about women [and] bringing God into the equation,” said Franklin. “God has plans for you. God loves you; even if you don’t feel love, God loves you.”

Franklin went on to say that outlandish expectations and harsh judgment are a daily reality for women.

“I want women to know they’re not superwomen…we’re human,” said Franklin. “And we have to realize that every woman comes from a different area in their lives.

“We’re so quick to judge when we don’t really know what a person’s been through. [Other people] don’t truly know you. God truly knows you.”

Natural beauty…and a podcast

Franklin also owns TJW Natural Beauty, a source of natural beauty products for women and men.

Recently, the author and entrepreneur felt called to begin the God Changed My Story podcast, featuring Franklin and three other women who talk about their life journeys.

Tanisha Franklin (second from left) began the GCMS podcast because “there is always more behind the story” (Courtesy, Tanisha Franklin)

“We can go through the same thing, but we all go through it differently, we all react to things differently,” said Franklin. “There’s always more behind the story.”

Franklin is living her dream of having a career that allows her to make her own schedule and have time for her family.

“I didn’t know that it was going to keep me this busy, but it has been wonderful,” said Franklin. “It’s a good busy, especially when you know that you’re doing God’s will.”

Franklin no longer struggles with trusting God’s plan for her life.

“I trust God like no other. I trust what God has told me, he will do. But it’s going to be in his timing. I’m not going to say it’s always easy because it’s not, [but] eventually there’s going to be light at the end.”

“If God did it for me, he’ll do it for you.” 

(Courtesy, Tanisha Franklin)

“I want to give back,” said Franklin. “I want to make a difference in my generation.”

Franklin’s desire to help others stems from her belief that God uses our stories to care for each other. She often reminds herself and others to walk by faith, not by sight.

“It’s not what it looks like right now, it’s what it will look like if we trust and walk in faith with God. You just have to be open and allow God to use you. Do that, because it makes you so much happier.

“I’ve never been so happy in my life.”

God Changed My Story resources

Learn more about Tanisha Franklin’s books here.

To receive updates on events, new book releases and podcast episodes, click here or email godchangedmystory@gcmsblessed.com.

Davenport first university to partner with Corewell Health on suicide prevention

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The collegiate version of Blue Envelope launched at Davenport this September, the first college to adopt the program (Courtesy photo)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


Davenport University is focused on student mental health. When approached by Corewell Health to participate in its Blue Envelope suicide prevention program, the university was immediately on board.

The collegiate version of Blue Envelope launched at Davenport this September, the first college to adopt the program.

Preventing suicide by intervention

The Blue Envelope program was first developed to serve hospitals and doctor’s offices and was then modified five and a half years ago for K-12 schools across Michigan to combat the increase in students with suicidal thoughts. The Blue Envelope program is designed to empower staff to intervene with confidence, knowledge and competence and is having a positive impact.

As of June 2024, the program touched more than 95,000 K-12 students and trained more than 15,000 staff in 230 Michigan schools. Last year, participating schools reported 1,400 incidents of what are called “preventative opportunities.”

Due to the program’s success in K-12 schools, Corewell Health decided to expand into Michigan colleges and universities.

A culture of care

Blue Envelope suicide prevention program training for Davenport staff is ongoing (Courtesy, Davenport U)

Broad-based training of Davenport staff and faculty began in early September and is ongoing.

Joe Bishop, Davenport’s executive director of Campus Life, said this is a wonderful opportunity for the university. “Davenport is proud to be the first university partner for the collegiate Blue Envelope program and to continue our efforts to innovate and provide an outstanding culture of care for our students.”

“So far, employees from Public Safety, Campus Life, Career Services, College of Health faculty members, coaches, advisors, resident assistants, our leadership Cabinet and more have been trained,” said Bishop. “Our goal is to get as many faculty and staff trained as possible over the course of the school year.”

Clear instruction for response

The Blue Envelope program utilizes nationally recognized and evidence-based tools that provide clear instructions for university staff so they know how to respond when a student expresses thoughts of suicide.

Jody Sprague, Corewell Health’s Program Manager for Corewell Health’s school-based suicide prevention, said this program equips faculty and staff to quickly and discretely alert others of a priority situation so that the student can receive immediate interventions and swift access to supportive resources.

“This program has been so successful because it is preventative and not reactive,” said Sprague. “Instead of sending people directly to the emergency room, we can recognize the signs and provide wrap-around support before it gets to the point that it becomes an emergency.”

No issue is too big or too small

This philosophy fits in perfectly with what Darrin Oliver, lead counselor at Davenport’s Wellness Center, and his team are striving to achieve. The center is made possible by the Keith and Kathy Klingenberg Family Mental Health Fund and illustrates the university’s commitment to mental health.

Studies show that college students are more anxious than ever before (Courtesy, Davenport U)

“At Davenport, we see many students with high levels of anxiety and students experiencing sadness,” said Oliver. “Research has shown that college students are more anxious than ever before, and anxiety continues to steadily rise.

“In addition, 10-30% of college students report depressive tendencies. Students seek counseling for a number of reasons, and I want to emphasize that no issue is too big or too small.”

According to Oliver, some common trigger events that can lead to depression, anxiety and thoughts of suicide include family and relationship issues, untreated or ongoing mental health conditions, academic or athletic challenges, bullying, recent loss or death, extracurricular challenges, financial stress and feeling lonely.

Oliver wants students to know that if they need someone to talk to, that’s what the counselors at the Wellness Center are for.

“We’re here to listen and provide students with the tools and resources needed to help them work through any issue. It’s important to work through these issues before they become too much to handle.”

Opportunity, resources and understanding

Oliver has been through the Blue Envelope training and says it is a wonderful addition to the university’s efforts to support student mental health.

The Blue Envelope suicide prevention program provides training and resources (Courtesy, Davenport U)

“This program gives the wider Davenport community the opportunity to have conversations about suicide and to arm them with resources to help them understand the risk factors and traits associated with suicidal ideation and behavior,” said Oliver.

“What I’m hearing from those who have been through the Blue Envelope training is that they feel more prepared if they encounter a student experiencing suicidal ideation. Suicide is the second leading cause of death among 17-24-year-olds, so having these conversations and programs at Davenport is crucial.”

Sprague agrees. “This incredible community partnership would not be possible without a grant from the Michigan Health Endowment Fund.”

Sprague said Davenport will be able to start training its own staff in approximately one year, at which point the Blue Envelope program will be sustainable.

“This program is really going to benefit our student body, and we hope to be able to continue the training for a long time,” said Bishop. “I’d especially like to thank Keri Dutkiewicz, Davenport’s director of faculty learning and training, for co-leading the program. Without Dutkiewicz, Davenport would not have been able to take on the project.”

Engagement, comfort and hope

The Blue Envelope program helps faculty and staff how to respond when someone is experiencing a mental health challenge (Courtesy, Davenport U)

Dutkiewicz feels that the Blue Envelope program is a natural extension of the other ways Davenport invests in the personal and professional growth of faculty and staff, like offering training to build self-awareness and understanding each other’s differences.

“We don’t just automatically know how to respond when someone expresses that they are experiencing a mental health challenge or crisis,” said Dutkiewicz. “The Blue Envelope program equips faculty and staff with the evidence based skills needed to effectively respond in these situations so we can help keep each other safe.

“We don’t hesitate to help someone if they are having a cardiac event, so why would we hesitate to get someone professional help if they are experiencing a mental health crisis?”

Dutkiewicz said she hopes the program inspires the Davenport community to give an honest answer when someone asks how they are doing and to feel comfortable enough to ask for and offer help when needed. “I also hope this program helps us engage with our families, friends and our communities to bring hope and professional help to those who need it,” she said.

Additional support and resources

In addition to the Blue Envelope program and the services offered at its Wellness Center, Davenport is taking the following steps to help decrease the prevalence of depression and mental health issues on its campus:

  • Get Connected student group: One of the newest initiatives at Davenport is the “Get Connected” student group organized by Davenport’s Wellness Center. This group is designed to help students who are feeling lonely or struggling to make friends and connections. For more information, email counseling@davenport.edu.
  • National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Walk: To help bring awareness to mental health issues, Davenport participates in the annual National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Walk every September. The community walk is held on Davenport’s W.A. Lettinga Grand Rapids Campus and brings attention to the issue of mental health.
  • “I understand”: Member of the Davenport Alumni Board Vonnie Woodrick created “I understand,” a nonprofit that provides compassionate comfort and understanding for those affected by suicide or mental/brain health illness and pain. Click here for more information.
If you or someone you know needs immediate help, call or text the suicide prevention hotline at 988 (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

Read more about the Blue Envelope program here.

Davenport students can make an appointment at the Wellness Center by calling 616-871-6166 or by visiting https://www.davenport.edu/campus-life/wellness-center. The Wellness Center’s counselors can also be reached on the “urgent” line at 616-340-5243.

*If you or someone you know needs immediate help, call or text the suicide prevention hotline at 988.

Wyoming mobile food pantry to be held Monday, Nov. 25

Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Food, Going Local, Health, Kent County, Non-Profits, Our Cities, Upcoming Events, , , , ,


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


Wyoming Public Schools (WPS) has partnered with Feeding America Mobile Pantry to host a Mobile Pantry once a month.

*WHS November Mobile Food Pantry will be held Monday, Nov. 25 from 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.

What to expect

Though the selection of food varies each month, there are always a variety of fresh and frozen items available at the Mobile Pantry.

The Mobile Pantry is drive-thru style, and families are asked to remain in their vehicles for safety.



This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is Wyoming-High-School-Mobile-Food-Pantry-Courtesy-WPS-1024x597.jpg
WHS Mobile Food Pantry Map (Courtesy, WPS)


Cars enter at the main entrance to WHS (1350 Prairie Parkway). Volunteers will direct traffic in the parking lot to help with efficiency.

Once in line, a volunteer will approach each car to record the name, address, number of people in the household, and the reason the food is needed for each family. Once a car has reached the front of the line, volunteers will load a box of food into the trunk.

Resources

To learn more about Feeding America West Michigan and the services they offer, click here.

For the Feeding America Mobile Food Pantry schedule, click here.

Honoring those who served: Wyoming veteran provides comfort for hospice veterans

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Going Local, Health, Kent County, Local Business, Local Faces, medical moment, Mental Health, Non-Profits, Senior Living, Veterans, Voices, West Michigan, , , , , ,
Ryan Gadberry (pictured) is no longer on active duty, yet continues to serve (Courtesy, Hospice of Michigan)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org

Gadberry works to ensure veterans are recognized for their service (Courtesy, Hospice of Michigan)

Wyoming resident Ryan Gadberry served four years (2013-2017) in the U.S. Marines. While no longer on active-duty, the local veteran continues serving by bringing comfort and recognition to hospice veterans during their end-of-life journey.

Already serving as Property Manager for Hospice of Michigan, Gadberry stepped in to help when he heard Hospice of Michigan needed veteran volunteers.

For the past eight months, Gadberry has used his military experiences to make a meaningful impact.

“I am more than happy to give back,” said Gadberry. “It’s very heartwarming; it makes you feel like you’re doing something really important.”

Camaraderie and compassion

Hospice of Michigan strives to deliver the holistic, loving care veterans deserve. Veteran volunteers make a difference in the lives of others by sitting and visiting with fellow veteran patients.

Gadberry said there is a specific connection between veterans due to shared military training and history.

Wyoming veterans gather at an annual local breakfast (Courtesy, City of Wyoming)

“You can meet a total stranger and, once you find out they are a fellow service person, there is an immediate connection,” said Gadberry. “You’re no longer a stranger.”

That connection has been frequently proven, but one instance made a lasting impact on Hospice of Michigan Volunteer Program Manager, Lauren Becker-Barkman.

A lifelong Marine within hours of the end of his life journey was restless, repeatedly reaching and calling out.

“There was no peace in this man’s world at this time,” said Becker-Barkman. “He’s uncomfortable, he’s restless.”

Veterans can make a difference in each other’s lives (Courtesy photo)

The hospice team asked a veteran volunteer to sit with the veteran in hopes of making a difference in his end-of-life journey.

“By the time [the volunteer] left,” said Becker-Barkman, “he was comfortable, he was at peace. He wasn’t calling out, he wasn’t reaching out.”

The veteran passed within a few hours – and what was said during that time together remains unknown.

“We don’t know what was said or what passed between these two veterans, but whatever it was allowed this man to find peace and to be able to go on peacefully,” said Becker-Barkman. “That’s the kind of connection you can’t make up. The impact is immeasurable.”

Gadberry personally cultivates that special connection with hospice veterans through empathy and understanding.

A desire to serve

Gadberry is thankful for his time in the Marines (Courtesy, Hospice of Michigan)

A first-generation serviceman in his family, Gadberry always knew he wanted to be a Marine.

“Even when I was a kid, that was the plan. Finish high school, join the Marines. That’s what I did.”

Gadberry served as an intelligence analyst, working with several overseas ops – and has no regrets.

“I love that I did it; it definitely turned me into the man I am today.”

And that man gets a visible bounce in his step when meeting fellow veterans.

An unexpected impact

“He gets a little pep in his step knowing that he’s going to meet a veteran,” said Becker-Barkman, adding that Gadberry is also asked to read poems or talk about the impact of veteran connections often. “He’s incredibly humble about being a veteran himself…so to know that he’s also getting some recognition and that he’s continuing to make an impact, it’s really cool.”

A local woman raises her voice in song at a vet pinning ceremony (Courtesy, Hospice of Michigan)

Gadberry said that volunteering has impacted him in ways he didn’t expect – especially the pinning ceremonies.

“What surprised me was the impact it has on the families,” said Gadberry. “It’s overwhelming to see. It’s important to make that veteran feel remembered and seen, but they’re on their end-of-life journey, they’re going to be gone soon. But that ceremony, and those memories, are going to be passed on and kept with the family members for many years to come.”

Though many veterans are recognized for their service through their communities, American Legion or VFW, there are just as many who never see recognition of any kind. Gadberry said giving that recognition to veterans during the last steps of their end-of-life journey is memorable for all involved.

“Every ceremony, every event is completely different,” said Gadberry. “Every time I do it, I take away something different and I learn a little bit more.”

Becker-Barkman said her time with Hospice of Michigan has also been life-changing.

“I’ve learned so much about end-of-life care and what that entails for us as human beings,” said Becker-Barkman. “I get to be surrounded by so many brilliant, loving, giving people that it’s changed my entire outlook on everything.

“It’s magical to be surrounded by people who are so willing to show up for people they don’t know at what can be the hardest time in their life; it’s rejuvenating.”

The value of serving in new ways

Hospice of Michigan is continually in need of compassionate veteran volunteers to provide that much needed support and camaraderie to hospice veterans. Regardless of how they served, the bond between veterans opens a door of trust and communication through mutual understanding.

“Veterans share a unique bond,” said Kathy Lietaert, Hospice of Michigan Statewide Volunteer Program Manager, in supplied material. “Through our veterans hospice program, every act of service by volunteer veterans brings comfort, connection and compassion to hospice veterans who need it most at the end of life.”

Volunteers can make a life-changing impact with a minimal time commitment (Courtesy photo)


Becker-Barkman said they are always looking for more volunteer support, in Grand Rapids and throughout the state – and their volunteering schedule is flexible.

“You could [visit] one patient a month, visit once a week, or whatever fits your schedule,” said Becker-Barkman. “We don’t have any rigid guidelines. We want volunteers to be able to fit this into their lives in a way that’s meaningful and not overwhelming for them.”

Volunteer orientations are hosted on an as-needed basis so prospective volunteers can learn in their own time. Training or previous volunteer experience is not needed. All veterans willing to donate their time and companionship to hospice care patients are welcome.

Gadberry believes that veterans will step in to help once they are aware of the need.

“I was more than happy to help out,” said Gadberry. “I think that will be the case for other veterans out there. If they hear that another veteran needs some form of help, they will always step up.”

Learn more!

Prospective volunteers can contact Lauren Becker-Barkman at 616-250-9110 or lbecker-barkman@hom.org.

Learn more about Hospice of Michigan and submit an online volunteer application here.

Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids to host Veterans Day Remembrance Walk, Roll & Run

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Health, Kent County, Non-Profits, Recreation, Senior Living, Upcoming Events, Veterans, West Michigan
Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids will host their annual Veterans Day 5 event on Nov. 9 (Courtesy, MVH)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids (MVHGR), in partnership with Zero Day, will host their Veterans Day 5 Remembrance 0.5-Mile Walk/Roll, 5K, and 5-Mile Run on Nov. 9 at 2950 Monroe Ave. NE.

Event check-in will begin at 7:15 a.m. The Kent County Honor Guard will present the colors while Army Veteran Danielle Engle sings the national anthem. The 5-mile run will begin at 8:30 a.m., followed by the 5K at 8:50 a.m., and the 0.5-mile remembrance walk at 9 a.m.

myTeam Triumph – Michigan Chapter Angels push Home members as Captains during the 5K run (Courtesy, MVH)

Registration for the race is currently open and will accommodate walk-ups the morning of the event. To register, click Veterans Day 5. Please enter off Monroe Avenue NE and follow signs for parking and check-in.

“We are always seeking opportunities to enrich the lives of the veteran members living at the Home as well as providing ways for the greater community of Grand Rapids to engage with veteran members,” said Ryan Engle, Director of Development and Strategic Engagement for Michigan Veteran Homes (MVH).

“The funds raised through the event will support the charitable support fund that provides therapeutic and leisure activities for every veteran member we have the honor and privilege to care for.”

Special thanks to myTeam Triumph – Michigan Chapter for coordinating Angels to push some Home members as Captains in the 5K run. Anyone interested in this opportunity can email angels@mttwestmichigan.org or visit myTeam Triumph – Michigan Chapter.

Participants, volunteers and spectators are invited to join veteran members and staff in the Home’s bistro for the SpartanNash Community Pancake Breakfast from 9 – 11:30 a.m. Race participants, volunteers and veteran members will receive a complimentary breakfast courtesy of SpartanNash, while guests are asked to make a minimum $5 donation to MVHGR.

Zero Day will donate 100% of event proceeds and donations to MVHGR following the event.

Sponsorship and giving opportunities

Those interested in sponsorship opportunities for the Veterans Day 5, please email dmva-mvhgiving@michigan.gov.

MVHGR is seeking monetary donations to improve members’ quality of life through life enrichment activities (Courtesy, MVH)

In support of life enrichment activities that improve the quality of life for members, the Home is seeking
monetary donations. Monetary donations can be made on-site by cash or check during the race, online at Michigan Veteran Homes – Make a Gift, or via checks made out to MVHGR and mailed to 2950 Monroe Ave. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49505.

This year’s race is supported by Zero Day, SpartanNash, myTeam Triumph – Michigan Chapter, The McGraw Family and Village Caregiving.

Tips for preparing children with autism for Halloween

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Health, Holidays, How-To's, Kent County, Kids Activities, medical moment, Mental Health, Upcoming Events, , , , , , , ,
There are several things you can do to prepare children with autism for Halloween fun! (Supplied)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


Dr. Candice Lake, Director of Wedgwood Christian Services’ Autism Center for Child Development, has authored a tip sheet to help parents of autistic children prepare for the trick-or-treat season.

Lake focuses on practicing, safety and reminders for community members.

Tips for Preparing Children with Autism for Halloween

Trick or Treating

  • Trial run wearing the costume
  • Practice saying trick or treat or using a communication card
  • Work on taking just one piece of candy and saying “Thank you” or using a communication card
  • Talk about how to know if a house is participating
  • Lights off vs. Lights on
  • Look for people present
  • Pre-walk the route or neighborhood you will be trick-or-treating in

Work on Safety Skills

  • Stay with an adult when walking
  • Look both ways before crossing the street
  • Stick to the sidewalk or edge of the road, not the middle of the street

Reminders for Community Members

  • Think about ways you can provide a more inclusive experience
  • Non-food treats such as pencils, stickers, or small toys
  • Limit scary or flashing decorations
  • Some kids may not have the verbal skills to say “Trick-or-Treat” or “Thank You” or feel comfortable wearing a costume – and that’s okay!
  • Teal Pumpkin Project is a great resource for additional tips on making this a Happy Halloween for everyone!

Big Apple Bagels in Grand Rapids to host open house and food drive for Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, Community Health, Food, Going Local, Health, Kent County, Local Business, Local Food, Non-Profits, Our Cities, Restaurants, Upcoming Events, , , , ,
The Big Apple Bagels one-day open house event will offer bagels for just $0.75 (Courtesy, Big Apple Bagels)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


Big Apple Bagels® in Grand Rapids (6670 Kalamazoo Ave.) will hold their official Grand Re-Opening Open House event to benefit the Kentwood Little Free Pantry on Saturday, Nov. 9, from 7 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry is a free resource that provides food to community members in need.

Helping those in need

All are encouraged to stop in, see the new Big Apple Bagels décor and receive a free coffee when you donate a non-perishable good to the Kentwood Little Free Pantry. During this one-day event, Big Apple Bagels will be offering bagels for just $0.75.

(Courtesy, Big Apple Bagels)

“We are grateful for the support from Big Apple Bagels for hosting a food drive for the Little Free Pantry. We typically see an increased need for donations around the holiday season,” said Val Romeo, Director of Kentwood Parks and Recreation.

“Whether it’s a collection of canned goods or a financial contribution, all donations help families in our community.”

Big Apple Bagels will be collecting non-perishable goods for the pantry through Nov. 30.

Pantry suggested donations

More information about Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry, including a list of suggested donations, is available at kentwood.us/littlefreepantry.

Wyoming mobile food pantry to be held Monday, Oct. 21

Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Food, Going Local, Health, Kent County, Our Cities, Upcoming Events, , , , ,


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


Wyoming Public Schools (WPS) has partnered with Feeding America Mobile Pantry to host a Mobile Pantry once a month.

*WHS October Mobile Food Pantry will be held Monday, Oct. 21 from 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.

What to expect

Though the selection of food varies each month, there are always a variety of fresh and frozen items available at the Mobile Pantry.

The Mobile Pantry is drive-thru style, and families are asked to remain in their vehicles for safety.



This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is Wyoming-High-School-Mobile-Food-Pantry-Courtesy-WPS-1024x597.jpg
WHS Mobile Food Pantry Map (Courtesy, WPS)


Cars enter at the main entrance to WHS (1350 Prairie Parkway). Volunteers will direct traffic in the parking lot to help with efficiency.

Once in line, a volunteer will approach each car to record the name, address, number of people in the household, and the reason the food is needed for each family. Once a car has reached the front of the line, volunteers will load a box of food into the trunk.

Resources

To learn more about Feeding America West Michigan and the services they offer, click here.

For the Feeding America Mobile Food Pantry schedule, click here.

Join hurricane relief efforts: GVSU partners with WLAV, SpartanNash and American Red Cross

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Environment, Food, Health, Upcoming Events, , , , , , ,
(Courtesy, GVSU)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


Grand Valley fans are encouraged to join Grand Valley Athletics and its partners, WLAV, SpartanNash and the American Red Cross, in relief efforts for hurricane victims across the southeastern United States.

Donation items

The American Red Cross is asking the public for donations of individually-wrapped snacks such as granola bars; fruit cups; bags of pretzels, chips, popcorn, or crackers; juice boxes or beef jerky.

Help hit GVSU’s goal of contributing 150,000 individually wrapped snacks. Something to eat can make a big difference for someone dealing with the aftermath of a disaster.

Even something as small as a snack can help those in need (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

Where and when to drop off

Lakers fans can drop off these items prior to Grand Valley’s home game against Northern Michigan from 3-7 p.m. on Oct. 12 in Parking Lot B2 at WLAV’s location in Tailgate Town.

Three SpartanNash store locations are also accepting donations through Saturday: Family Fare, 6370 Lake Michigan Drive, Allendale; D&W, 1116 Robbins Road, Grand Haven; and Forest Hills Foods, 4668 Cascade Road SE, Grand Rapids.

Learn more!

For more information, visit the Grand Valley Athletics website.

“The American Presidency on Screen” – New documentary carries critical message of American unity

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Entertainment, Politics, Upcoming Events, , , , , ,
The American Presidency on Screen, a new 80-minute documentary, will make its debut screening at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum in Grand Rapids (Courtesy, pxhere.com)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


The American Presidency on Screen, a new 80-minute documentary, will make its debut screening on Oct. 9 at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum in Grand Rapids. A panel discussion with subject matter experts will follow.

Five centuries of American history

What connects us as Americans is far stronger than what divides us (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

The Washington Political Film Foundation is set to premiere its latest documentary, The American Presidency on Screen, at events cosponsored by two of the National Archives Libraries & Museums this fall. This initiative highlights how Hollywood has interpreted history to captivate, inspire and entertain audiences through movie, television and streaming platform depictions that explore pivotal moments in American history.

The primary focus of the initiative is to explore the role of American Presidents. From portrayals of real-life Presidents to fictional Chief Executives in films and television series, the documentary roars along to cover key moments in the timeline of American history.

This timely documentary spans five centuries of American history, from the colonial era to present day. In exploring historical portrayals of the U.S. Presidency, the film serves as a reminder of the shared history and democratic ideals that unite all Americans.

Released during the lead-up to the presidential election, The American Presidency on Screen carries a critical message of unity, emphasizing that what connects us as Americans is far stronger than what divides us—an especially important message in today’s polarized political climate.

Documentary contributors and sponsors

The documentary highlights the power of film and common bonds of American citizens (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

The film benefited from important contributions made by veteran LA-based producer Kirk Saduski, known for his high-profile work with CNN, HBO, and Apple TV+. Saduski was an advisor to the Washington Political Film Foundation, which developed the idea and produced the film.

“This project underscores the unifying power of film in a divided political landscape and a violent world,” said Lee Johnson, Chairman and CEO of The Foundation. “For over a century, Americans have been inspired, educated, and entertained by some of the greatest creative talent ever assembled in film and television.

“With The American Presidency on Screen, our hope is that audiences will be reminded of our common history and the ties that bind us together.”

The American Presidency on Screen is made possible through the generous support of the Goldman Sachs Foundation.

Additional screening and film information

The second screening will be held at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library on the University of Michigan campus in Ann Arbor on Oct. 17.

The third event will take place Oct. 18 at The Carter Center in Atlanta, sponsored by the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library & Museum in Atlanta, also featuring a post-screening discussion.

For more information about the film and upcoming screenings, click here.

Kent County Department of Public Works releases fall recycling guide for residents

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(Courtesy, pxhere.com)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


The Kent County Department of Public Works (DPW) has released its annual fall recycling guide, which shows residents how to properly dispose of common household items.

The fall recycling guide highlights items that are commonly used in the fall – like disposable coffee cups, soup cartons, jugs, foil and cans – that can be recycled, but are often thrown away and are placed in a landfill. It also shows items that are not recyclable but can still be disposed of in a way that avoids landfilling.

“Each year we are proud to help Kent County residents take steps to reduce their landfill waste with the Fall Recycling Guide,” said Dar Baas, director of the DPW. “We can all do our part to protect our land, air and water and have more sustainable fall season for the benefit of our whole community.”


(Courtesy, pxhere.com)

Online waste disposal resources

The DPW’s recycling guides are a helpful tool for Kent County residents to learn how to do their part to reduce landfill waste.

Beyond common fall items, the DPW has an online Recycling & Waste Directory that allows users to search virtually any item and find ways to dispose of it through donation, composting or the safe disposal of hazardous waste.

View the 2024 Fall Recycling Guide online

The Kent County DPW provides municipal solid waste disposal services to ensure the effective removal, storage and disposal of residential and commercial solid waste through various facilities and programs, including Waste-to-Energy, the Recycling and Education Center, North Kent Transfer Station and South Kent Landfill.  

Lee Middle School partners with Affinity Mentoring, provides youth safe, inclusive space

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Lee Middle School has rekindled their partnership with Affinity Mentoring in a recent ribbon cutting ceremony at their newly renovated mentoring space (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


South Kent Chamber of Commerce presents Affinity Mentoring with a certificate at the ribbon cutting ceremony (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

“I see you, I hear you. You are valued, and I know things you have to say right now are things that need to be heard by all of us.”

This is the value Affinity Mentoring provides youth in our local schools, says Lauren Enos, Affinity Mentoring Program and DEI Director.

Lee Middle School in Wyoming has rekindled their partnership with nonprofit Affinity Mentoring after a two-year hold due to necessary school roof renovations.

Focusing on schools facing disadvantages, Affinity supports students in K-8th grade by matching them with a caring adult role model and striving to create a safe space for local youth to utilize their voice.

Small commitment = big impact

Affinity mentors journey alongside students for one hour each week.

“All of our mentors have said it’s the smallest commitment they’ve ever made for the biggest impact on their life,” says Enos. “We have a 90% retention rate. Mentors come back year after year to work with the same student because they become friends. It’s a true relationship.”

Affinity Mentoring Executive Director Rocio Moreno (left) talks about their partnership with the Godfrey-Lee School District (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Holly Kroeze, mentor and Mars Hill Bible Church staff member, is entering her seventh year mentoring Lee Middle School student, Eternity. During that time, Eternity was adopted by her foster mother – and Kroeze has built a relationship with Eternity’s entire family.

“I have found that developing a relationship with [her] mom has been helpful because she gives me insight into things that are going on in Eternity’s life,” says Kroeze.

Kroeze went on to say that she has enjoyed partnering with other adults in Eternity’s life to give more extensive care and support.

“It’s fun to see kids like Eternity get care from multiple adults,” says Kroeze, adding that kids need support from five adults in order to thrive. “I’m grateful I get to be one of those people for her because she has grown a lot. It’s been so fun to watch her journey.”

Lee MS Principal Adrianne Rose speaks at the Affinity Mentoring ribbon cutting ceremony (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Lee Middle School is Affinity’s third partnership in the Godfrey-Lee School District (also Godfrey-Lee Early Childhood Center and Elementary), and their sixth school partnership overall (Burton Elementary, Burton Middle School, Southwest Elementary – Academia Bilingüe).

“We’re really excited to be back in Lee Middle School,” says Enos. “We’re now able to follow the kiddos from early childhood into middle school.”

Lee MS Principal Adrianne Rose echoes Enos’ enthusiasm.

“We wanted to rekindle that partnership because this is an incredibly important piece to the whole child in our academics,” says Rose. “Our 6th graders, they’re excited to see their mentors. They ask about them, they want them to be here, and that to me tells me the mentors are doing what they’re here to do.”

A safe and inclusive space

While Affinity’s mentoring program has seen positive results such as increased school attendance and class engagement from students and a decrease in truancy, bullying and behavioral concerns – there are also personal benefits.

“We really hone in on our mentor centers to be a safe, inclusive space for our mentees to be able to share their difficulties,” says Rocio Moreno, Executive Director at Affinity Mentoring. “Some of it might be home-related or life-related, and we can tailor our program to that.

“Behavioral concerns tend to decrease because they’re able to engage in those hard topic conversations with their mentor as to why they might have made a particular choice throughout that time.”

Staff and mentors are excited for this opportunity to support Lee Middle School youth (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

An overall improvement in self-esteem comes from knowing that one-on-one support is available.

“[Students] feel more confident,” says Enos. “They’re willing to take risks and make mistakes because there’s someone there to say, ‘I was in that same place, and I made those mistakes too,’ normalizing all the everyday things they go through.”

That support can often go both ways.

Since beginning her journey as a mentor, Kroeze and her husband became foster parents.

“Eternity was the first person to give me the best advice about what to do and what things she liked,” says Kroeze.

“Our relationship has been mutually beneficial because I’ve learned a lot from her. Learned how to be a good parent, and learned how to relate to foster kids. For Eternity, she’s [gained] some stability and accountability in her life.”

100+ students are waiting…

Affinity Mentoring is always in need of new community volunteers who are willing to donate an hour of their time once a week.

“One hour a week eating your lunch, hanging out and making slime will go by so fast,” said Moreno with a smile. “But the need for volunteers is high as we currently have over 100 students on our waitlist that desire a mentor.”

Kroeze recommends joining the mentoring program with a spouse or partner.

“My husband and I do it together, and we’ve done it together since Day One,” says Kroeze. “It’s fun to put faces to names when you talk about what your day was like with your mentee.

“Mentoring together makes things a little bit crazier – but a lot of fun.”

Eventually, Moreno would love to expand Affinity’s mentoring program to Lee High School as well. “Because this is a middle school-high school, it would be an easy transition to continue for the students we currently work with.”

For more information about Affinity Mentoring services, click here.

Local organization “wows” youth with intentional and extravagant love

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LOVED youth program founder Steve Carigon and VP of Advancement Brooke Jevicks talk with Managing Editor Deborah Reed on WKTV Journal Soundbites about how they WOW kids with love at Wedgwood Christian Services.


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


The Wedgwood Christian Services (WCS) LOVED program is intentionally “wowing” youth with extravagant love.

“The majority of the kids that come into our care have been chronically neglected and abused,” says Brooke Jevicks, VP of Advancement at WCS, adding that many youth go through 7-12 failed placements before being referred to WCS for help.

(Courtesy, WCS)

When youth are critically neglected and abused, it reinforces doubt and the question: Am I worthy of being loved?

“It’s critically important for a human to know that they are valued and worthy, and that they are loved,” says Jevicks. “You want to work on yourself differently when you know and believe that. You work harder for yourself, you fight for yourself, you advocate for yourself.”

Love – with intention

Youth pastor Steve Carigon founded LOVED when the previous WCS youth ministry faltered under pandemic gathering restrictions.

Based on bible verse John 3:16, LOVED was born shortly after – with intention.

“It’s something that the kids need,” says Carigon. “These kids have not been loved properly, and we’re going to do everything we can to show them that they are loved by God, and by us, any way we can.”

LOVED is held at 4 p.m. every other Thursday and is open to all WCS home residents. However, attendance is not mandatory.

Even the bubbles are intentional

LOVED begins at the front door with a bubble machine and a red carpet.

“We want them to feel like stars and that they are awesome,” says Carigon.

Wedgwood supporters play a game similar to a game LOVED youth play while being cheered on (Courtesy, WCS)

Jevicks agrees. “Staff are cheering for every kid. They are seriously in the business of making sure those kids know, without a shadow of a doubt, that they are worthy of being loved.”

Upon entering the building, youth choose a flavored sucker and receive a raffle ticket. They are then ushered into the music-filled chapel where kids can sit or play games before the program begins.

A countdown on the screen gets things rolling. After the welcome and a reminder that they are loved, an interactive on-screen game begins that typically involves a lot of…yelling and candy-throwing.

For the next game (anything from flipping bottles to using sticky gel hands to retrieve items off a table), youth approach the stage when their name is drawn, are introduced, and then cheered on by everyone in the room.

Raffle tickets, crab legs and a…unicorn?

Next onstage is the…raffle unicorn.

“We have a unicorn costume, and kids always want to be the unicorn,” says Carigon with a laugh.

Wedgwood guests cheer when names are called as is done for youth who attend LOVED (Courtesy, WCS)

Raffle numbers are read, and winners choose what they want for lunch the next day.

“They love it,” says Carigon. “The kids are starting to understand that I literally will get them anything they want for lunch. Last week I went to Red Lobster and got crab legs.”

A 10-minute talk on God’s love wraps up the program.

“They’re getting it.”

“I see a bunch of kids receiving and expressing love in normal conversations,” says Carigon, noting that a large portion of that happens outside of actual LOVED events.

One of Carigon’s favorite things is hearing youth shout, “You’re loved!” across campus.

“It means they’re getting it,” says Carigon.

(Courtesy, WCS)

Carigon also enjoys seeing WCS youth wear LOVED wristbands, shirts and hats around campus.

“They wear the shirts, and it’s like a proclamation saying, ‘I’m loved. I’m wearing the shirt, I’m loved.’”

That declaration is about more than shirts – it is about relationships.

“It’s me, the leaders, the other chaplains building relationships with kids,” says Carigon. “We’re well-known around campus because we work at doing rounds and seeing kids in between classes, at lunch and after school. We try to intersect their lives as much as possible.”

Loved people…love people

“The same question all humans ask is, am I loved?” says Carigon. “I’m also a human, so I feel that too. Our own brain is really good at telling us that we’re not good enough.

(Courtesy photo)

“Even though you may not think you’re enough, you are exactly enough.”

Carigon firmly believes that consistently hearing we are loved and valued changes the way we interact with ourselves and with other people.

“When you feel love yourself, you start loving other people,” says Carigon. “[And] we’re supposed to love other people. My hope is when these kids feel loved, it changes their outcome.”

Jevicks says that is the heart of LOVED. “They’ve put so much thought and intention into it, [and] there is a meaningful message for youth so they know that they are loved by their Heavenly Father. Exactly who they are right now, today, He loves them deeply.”

That extravagant love is why Carigon loves his job.

“When you love people – especially kids that haven’t been loved well – how can you have a bad day?” 

Refusing to abandon our youth

“What sets WCS aside is that deep love for these kids – and not abandoning them,” says Jevicks. “LOVED is not a mandatory program to receive good care and to be loved. We’re going to love you anyway. That’s the gift of Wedgwood.”

A LOVED event guest writes a blessing for a youth in WCS residential care (Courtesy, WCS)

WCS staff continue demonstrating support and love even when youth push them away.

“We anticipate that, we understand it, we’re not surprised by it,” says Jevicks. “It’s a trauma response; it’s protection. It’s all they know.”

When youth push, WCS staff plant their feet, respecting boundaries while continually acknowledging and caring for them. Over time, youth often take steps to close that gap.

“Those are powerful moments,” says Jevicks. “It illustrates the power of love. True, sincere, Christ-like love. Go ahead and push me away, because I understand why you’re pushing me away. You do what you need to do, and I’m going to keep being right here for you.

“That’s what Wedgwood does for these kids, and they get even more of that at LOVED.”

For more information on LOVED and other WCS programs, click here.

Preparation for fall flu season is key for seniors

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It’s important older adults – and those who care for them – take action each fall to help prevent severe complications that can come from contracting viral illnesses. (Courtesy, Adobe Stock)


By Care Resources

greer@wktv.org



While fall brings with it sweaters, corn mazes and all things pumpkin spice, it also marks a peak in respiratory virus illnesses.

As the new season begins, Care Resources Clinical Quality Manager Bethany Graham says now is a serious time to focus on illness prevention, particularly for older adults.

“Every year in the fall, we start seeing an increase in influenza and COVID in the U.S.,” says Graham, who oversees infection control for Care Resources, a community-based program that serves people 55 years and older. “Flu and COVID are viral illnesses that impact everyone differently depending on age and different risk factors.

“For our more frail, medically complex elderly population, these viruses can be really detrimental, so it’s important older adults – and those who care for them – work diligently to avoid illness each year.”

Medical professionals strongly recommend updated flu and COVID vaccines each fall to provide protection through the winter season when those viruses are more widespread in the community.

While the vaccines don’t fully prevent people from contracting the flu or COVID, Graham says they do significantly decrease the severity of symptoms and the risk of hospitalization – or worse – for vulnerable populations.

“Where grandkids and other family members may be sick for just few days and then recover, for unprotected older adults, getting the flu or COVID could result in hospitalization and severe complications like pneumonia or death,” Graham says. “Staying up to date on recommended vaccines can help prevent those complications. That is why older adults in particular should get vaccinated each fall.”

To help those who are hesitant to get vaccinated, Graham and her team work to educate the community about common myths.

“To be clear: You cannot get the flu or COVID from vaccines. That’s simply not how it works. It is not possible,” she says. “We also want people to understand that some side effects are completely normal and temporary – things such as soreness or pain at the injection site, fatigue, even a low-grade fever – it’s just your body reacting to the vaccine, which is a good thing. Side effects should only last two or three days at most.”

What else can caregivers of older adults be doing to help prepare for flu season? Graham says keeping open lines of communication about how everyone is feeling is key.

“First and foremost, get into the habit of talking about any symptoms they’re having,” she says. “If they are not feeling well, make sure they’re not going near loved ones – and the other way around.

“Get comfortable having discussions about illnesses and symptoms before visits to avoid contact with family members who are sick.”

As the holiday season nears, Graham urges everyone to take personal responsibility of not spreading any illness.

“If you are not feeling well, be honest about your symptoms and don’t visit grandma and grandpa,” she says. “It’s not worth the risk.”

If contact cannot be avoided, particularly for caregivers of older adults, Graham recommends wearing a mask.

“I like to remind people masks are not a COVID-specific tool,” she says. “If you’re not feeling well but need to be around a loved one, wearing a mask will decrease the risk of giving any illness to them and vice versa.”

Handwashing also is very important – especially after coughing or sneezing and before eating. Graham recommends “really ramping up hand washing even more than you might normally do” in fall and winter.

Actual hand washing with hand soap and water is best, but hand sanitizer is better than nothing – and sometimes easier in certain caregiver situations. 

“If your loved one has dementia, offering hand-washing reminders can be really helpful,” she adds. “And just modeling it yourself, making it the norm.”

Additionally, Graham says to keep up with regular cleaning and disinfection of high-touch surfaces, such as door handles, bed rails and cane walkers.

Care Resources offers a variety of medical care and home health services, including vaccine clinics for participants, to help older adults stay healthy and independent. To learn more, visit CareResources.org or call 616-913-2006.

FORTUNE awards Beacon Hill third national recognition for senior services and care

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FORTUNE’s recognition is the third national recognition for local senior care facility, Beacon Hill at Eastgate (Courtesy, Beacon Hill)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


Beacon Hill at Eastgate has again received national recognition, this time being ranked third overall by FORTUNE in its 2024 Best Small and Medium Workplaces in Aging Services for Senior Housing and Care.

To be considered for the honor, organizations needed to be Great Place To Work-Certified™, have under 1,000 employees and provide senior housing or care. To determine the rankings, FORTUNE and Great Places to Work analyzed survey feedback from more than 181,000 U.S. employees on issues from pay and benefits to personal development opportunities and collegiality.

Beacon Hill at Eastgate was the only Michigan organization in the top 10 on this list.

In the past year, Great Place To Work surveyed companies employing 8.2 million people in the U.S. and received 1.3 million survey responses. Of those, over 181,002 responses were received from employees at companies who were eligible for the 2024 Fortune Best Workplaces in Aging Services list.

National recognition – in triplicate!

(Courtesy, Beacon Hill)

This is the third national recognition for Beacon Hill in recent months.

Earlier this year, the nonprofit was recognized as one of America’s Best Continuing Care Retirement Communities by Newsweek for its commitment to resident care. A few months earlier, Beacon Hill earned a spot on U.S. News & World Report’s 2024 Best Nursing Homes list, with the highest possible rating of five out of five.

“We are as dedicated to supporting our staff as we are to serving our residents,” President and CEO Jeffrey Huegli said. “We believe each and every employee is a valuable and integral part of our community’s well-being.

“This award underscores our commitment to our team and to creating an exceptional work environment. We are again delighted to receive national recognition in our industry.”

Heart and hospitality

Beacon Hill at Eastgate is a distinctive, nonprofit, continuing care retirement community nestled in the established and vibrant Eastgate neighborhood. The retirement community offers residents a host of tasteful living and care options, including independent living, assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing. The nonprofit also provides rehabilitation services.

Beacon Hill at Eastgate is known for their heart and hospitality (Courtesy, Beacon Hill)

Beacon Hill hires for heart and talent – its team of approachable, passionate experts not only provides the highest level of hospitality but also emotional connections, spiritual support and resources residents can use to flourish in their homes and live independently.

The nonprofit helps residents feel at home by giving them access to a variety of on-site amenities that include four restaurants with weekly rotating menus, an indoor pool and state-of-the-art fitness center, art and exercise classes, community gardens and walking paths.

To learn more about Beacon Hill at Eastgate, click here.

Arbor Circle to host annual open house at The Bridge shelter for youth on Sept. 25

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The Bridge of Arbor Circle is a safe, no cost shelter program for youth, ages 10-17, who are facing homelessness or considering running away (Courtesy, Arbor Circle)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


Join Arbor Circle on Sept. 25 from 4-6 p.m. to learn more about The Bridge of Arbor Circle and services for youth experiencing homelessness during the End of Summer Celebration.

During the event, guests will have the opportunity to tour The Bridge youth shelter and learn more from staff about the different programs available for youth. In addition to a sneak peek of some exciting construction projects underway at The Bridge, this year’s open house will feature snacks from New City Neighbors’ New City Café as well as a mural created on site during the event.


The Bridge End of Summer Celebration will offer sneak peeks of construction projects, snacks and a mural created on site (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

Offering youth stable and accessible shelter

The Bridge of Arbor Circle is a safe shelter program for youth, ages 10-17, who are facing homelessness, housing instability, or considering running away. The Bridge offers youth a stable and accessible place to stay. Located in Grand Rapids, The Bridge is open 24/7/365.

“We are excited to open this space to the public for the evening and spread awareness of the important services provided at The Bridge,” shared Monique Carter, Director of Youth Development Services at Arbor Circle. “This space is incredibly special and we want folks to know what support is available to youth in our community.”

Free event registration

For more information and to register for this year’s free event, click here.

Sponsors for this year’s event include Veneklasen Construction.

Wyoming Fire Department continues garage fire investigation

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The Wyoming Fire Department responded to several reports of a garage fire located near 44th Street and Oriole Avenue SW on Sept. 21 (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


At approximately 12:15 p.m. on Sept. 21, the Wyoming Fire Department responded to several reports of a garage fire located near the area of 44th Street and Oriole Avenue SW.

(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

The first arriving fire units observed a garage that was fully involved and quickly spreading to nearby homes and garages. Explosions were noted, likely from tires within the garage. The fire had already spread rapidly throughout the garage, causing significant smoke that could be seen from several miles away.

The fire also involved a Consumers Energy power pole and power lines above the area. Consumers Energy was contacted for an emergent response to cut power to this area while the fire was being extinguished.

The fire was extinguished, preventing it from fully spreading to the nearby house. A neighbor’s garage adjacent to the structure fire also sustained damage, along with nearby homes that suffered melted siding from the intense heat of the fire.

There were no injuries or fatalities, as the occupants were able to evacuate safely.

Importance of fire safety

The Wyoming Fire Department was notified of this fire due to the actions of observant neighbors and passers-by who saw smoke and flames arising from the garage. Notifying 911 quickly helped Wyoming firefighters get on scene and successfully extinguish the fire and limit damage to nearby properties.

The Wyoming Fire Department would like to thank the many local and municipal partners involved with this fire either directly or indirectly to include: Wyoming Police Department, Kentwood Fire Department, Byron Township Fire Department, American Medical Response for standby for firefighter safety, Grandville Fire Department for covering other emergency calls during this incident, Consumers Energy for their quick response, and DTE.

Additional information regarding fire welcome

This fire is currently under investigation for origin and cause. Anyone with additional information regarding this fire is asked to contact the Wyoming Fire Department Fire Marshal’s Office Fire Investigator at 616-257-9764.

Retriever Fever: PAWS to host annual competition between Golden Retriever and Labrador Retriever fans

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(Courtesy, PAWS)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


West Michigan families and their four-legged best friends are invited to attend Paws With A Cause’s fourth annual Retriever Fever! This free, dog-friendly gathering will take place on Saturday, Sept. 21, at Riverside Park located at 2001 Monroe Ave NE in Grand Rapids.

What to expect

This event is centered around a friendly competition between Labrador Retriever and Golden Retriever fans with retriever races, raffles, and merchandise sales contributing to deciding which dog breed is named “Top Dog” and raises the most money for PAWS.

Retriever Fever will also include food trucks, games and activities, local community vendors, Dog CPR/First Aid Demonstrations by Blue Pearl Pet Hospital, Pet Headshots by Tailwagger Dog Photography, and the opportunity to get your dog’s nails trimmed. Attendees will also be able to hear about the life-changing impact of a PAWS Assistance Dog from a Client Speaker and see PAWS Assistance Dogs in action through demonstrations.

Dogs enjoy the Retriever Fever Race on the day of the event (Courtesy, PAWS)

“We’re so excited to be hosting this event back to our community for a fourth year in a row,” said Kristy Blackmore, Special Events Manager at PAWS. “There are new additions this year including dog nail trims, CPR demonstrations, new community vendors, and new PAWS Dogs to meet.

“It’s going to be a fun day. We hope people bring their dogs join in on the excitement!”

Supporting the PAWS mission

Opportunities to support the PAWS non-profit in their mission to serve people with disabilities through assistance dogs are available through event sponsorships and donations.

A PAWS Assistance Dog rests at the feet of its owner (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

“Thank you to our incredible event sponsors, Blue Pearl Pet Hospital, Dan Vos Construction, Outfront Media, and Chrispy Media. With their support, we’re able to host events like these and continue our mission.”

More information about Retriever Fever can be found here.

Treasured Brown Girl to honor Alopecia Awareness Month with giveaway 

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Treasured Brown Girl aims to restore confidence, hope and belonging in brown girls with Alopecia by normalizing their condition and unlocking their confidence (Courtesy photo)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


September commemorates Alopecia Awareness Month, and a Grand Rapids organization is looking to shed light on the hair-loss disease and bring awareness to those living with it in their day-to-day lives.

Treasured Brown Girl (TBG) was founded by Tyra Thomas after she witnessed a loved one dealing with Alopecia firsthand. TBG aims to restore confidence, hope and belonging in brown girls with Alopecia by normalizing their condition and unlocking their confidence.

Providing confidence and strength

TBG Alopecia wig box with custom contents (Courtesy, TBG)

TBG specializes in “wig boxes” for young girls living with Alopecia. Each box comes with a custom, age-appropriate, natural headband wig, and confidence-boosting supplies that include a mirror, nail polish, pens, and accessories for the wig. Also included in the boxes is a charming story about the impact of Alopecia on a little girl, and a guided journal for girls to process their emotions and examine their strengths.

Boxes can be curated to fit the needs of each individual.

“Treasured Brown Girl came to be because someone I love has Alopecia,” said Thomas. “Alopecia has several stages, and she tried different oils, different shampoo, but nothing was working and the condition kept getting worse.”

TBG journal (Courtesy, TBG)

Thomas, who previously owned a hair salon, found that many of the wigs they were looking into buying weren’t the right texture, or were not age appropriate. Even though vendors Thomas was familiar with through her salon could provide wigs, they did not supply them for children often.

“No one is looking at the whole emotional impact this hair loss has, or what support systems are out there,” Thomas said. “With the emotional toll that Alopecia takes, it’s important that the product feels like your natural hair.”

Giveaway registration details

To honor Alopecia Awareness Month, TBG is giving away a wig box and a makeover for a girl between the ages of 8-16 with Alopecia. The giveaway is supported by Opportunity Empowered.

Registration for the giveaway is online from Sept. 8-18, and the winner will be chosen Sept. 19.

Wyoming mobile food pantry to be held Monday, Sept. 23

Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Food, Going Local, Health, Kent County, Non-Profits, Our Cities, Upcoming Events, West Michigan, , , , ,



By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


Wyoming Public Schools (WPS) has partnered with Feeding America Mobile Pantry to host a Mobile Pantry once a month.

*WHS September Mobile Food Pantry will be held Monday, Sept. 23 from 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.

What to expect

Though the selection of food varies each month, there are always a variety of fresh and frozen items available at the Mobile Pantry.

The Mobile Pantry is drive-thru style, and families are asked to remain in their vehicles for safety.



This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is Wyoming-High-School-Mobile-Food-Pantry-Courtesy-WPS-1024x597.jpg
WHS Mobile Food Pantry Map (Courtesy, WPS)


Cars enter at the main entrance to WHS (1350 Prairie Parkway). Volunteers will direct traffic in the parking lot to help with efficiency.

Once in line, a volunteer will approach each car to record the name, address, number of people in the household, and the reason the food is needed for each family. Once a car has reached the front of the line, volunteers will load a box of food into the trunk.

Resources

To learn more about Feeding America West Michigan and the services they offer, click here.

For the Feeding America Mobile Food Pantry schedule, click here.

Ronald McDonald House Charities asking for the public’s help on Sept. 17 to help restock pantry

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(Courtesy, RMHC)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


Ronald McDonald House Charities West Michigan (RMHCWM) is calling on the community to help ensure families staying at the House have access to the comfort of home-cooked meals, easy meals and individually packaged snacks. On Tuesday, Sept. 17, 2024, from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m., RMHCWM will host a collection drive at 1323 Cedar St NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503.

Your generous donations keep families nourished with the comforts of home (Courtesy, RMHC)

During their stay, families of hospitalized children rely on RMHCWM for a comforting place to rest and eat. By donating essential food items, you can help ease their burden, allowing them to focus on what truly matters—their child’s health. Your generous donations help stock the RMCHWM pantry and keep families nourished with the comforts of home.

Wish List:

  • Individually packed shelf-stable snacks: Chips, granola bars, fruit snacks, crackers, mini-muffins, etc.
  • Easy meals: Kraft macaroni, ramen noodles, soups, hamburger helper, etc.
  • Rice: Plain and mixes
  • Pastas: All varieties – 16 or 32 oz. boxes
  • Pasta sauces: Red sauce and alfredo, jarred or canned
  • Canned vegetables and beans: tomatoes (all varieties), corn, green beans, black beans, etc
  • Broths: Beef and chicken
  • Spices: Garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, parsley, oregano, chili powder, cumin, etc.
  • Marinades and sauces
  • Baking chips: Chocolate, white chocolate, cinnamon
  • Dessert mixes: Cakes, brownies, etc.

If you cannot drop off your donations in person, you can still participate by shopping on Amazon and shipping your items directly to the House. Visit the RMCHWM Amazon Wish List at https://a.co/9nk0vfN to find the items most needed.

Let’s work together to keep the RMHCWM pantry fully stocked (Courtesy, RMHC)

Spread the word!

Share this collection drive with friends and family, and let’s work together to keep the pantry fully stocked, ensuring that every family staying at RMHCWM has access to the comfort foods they want during their stay.

About Ronald McDonald House Charities West Michigan

The mission of Ronald McDonald House Charities West Michigan is to keep families together who travel to Grand Rapids when their child is receiving medical or mental health treatment in the hospital.

Since 1990, RMHCWM has been serving families throughout Michigan and worldwide. Families live at the House where they have access to a safe, clean, and comfortable room with bath plus hot meals and transportation to and from the hospital, all at no cost to the families.


(Courtesy RMHC)

Paws With A Cause breaks ground on renovations that will change lives of those with disabilities

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PAWS celebrated a milestone moment by recently breaking ground for their $9.5 million facility renovation project (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


Paws With A Cause (PAWS) celebrated a milestone moment by recently breaking ground for their $9.5 million facility renovation project.

For over 45 years, PAWS has enhanced the independence and quality of life for those with disabilities through the use of custom-trained Assistance Dogs. Since its inception, PAWS has placed over 3,000 Assistance Dogs with people with disabilities.


PAWS is determined to serve even more people within the community (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Determined to do more

Four years ago the PAWS team brainstormed one simple goal: to serve even more people with disabilities.

“By 2030, our goal is to place over 100 assistance dogs with clients annually, and for 90% of our PAWS dogs to go into some kind of working career,” said Sarah Osterman, PAWS Board of Directors Chair and volunteer foster puppy raiser at the groundbreaking ceremony.

There is a growing demand for Assistance Dogs and the lifetime support that PAWS offers. Each year over 400 qualified individuals apply for a PAWS Assistance Dog. Current buildings and facilities limit the ability to address this unmet need.

“PAWS has outgrown our capacity to be able to breed, raise and train more PAWS dogs in these current facilities,” said Osterman. “Renovating our building to address these needs for improvement will allow us to expand our transformational and inspirational work.”


PAWS Assistance Dogs were in attendance at the groundbreaking ceremony (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Embracing the journey

The first step toward attaining these renovation goals was to embark on PAWS’s first community-wide capital campaign, Embrace the Journey, in April 2024.

“The goal for the Embrace the Journey campaign is to raise $9.5 million in charitable gifts, allowing us to improve five critical areas in our existing facilities and to address the growing demand for assistance and facility dogs,” said PAWS CEO, Michele Suchovsky.

“Many community members rallied around our vision for the future. I am thrilled to share that today we have raised over $8.6 million of that $9.5 million.”

To date, more than 700 donors have supported the campaign.

PAWS National Headquarters is nestled amid commercial firms and farmland in Wayland, MI. Though the current PAWS facilities have served them well since 1994, few improvements have been made over the years.

  • PAWS renovation renderings (Courtesy, Dan Vos Construction, FMD Architects, Journey Construction Group)
  • PAWS renovation renderings (Courtesy, Dan Vos Construction, FMD Architects, Journey Construction Group)
  • PAWS renovation renderings (Courtesy, Dan Vos Construction, FMD Architects, Journey Construction Group)
  • PAWS renovation renderings (Courtesy, Dan Vos Construction, FMD Architects, Journey Construction Group)

The upcoming renovations will include:

  • Improved kennels
  • Exemplary veterinary facilities
  • National breeding center
  • New foster puppy spaces
  • Updated training facilities

“With these renovations we’ll be able to place more Assistance Dogs with clients, and place more working dogs in community-focused careers through our purposeful placements department,” said Suchovsky.

But more importantly, the results of these renovations will be felt by current and future PAWS clients.

Life-changing moments

“Each PAWS Assistance Dog opens a world of possibilities, something I can personally attest to as a client,” said Molly Koroleski, PAWS Board Member and client.

After contracting meningitis at the age of three, Koroleski woke from a coma to realize  she had lost her hearing. She moved through life unable to hear smoke alarms, emergency sirens or a knock on the door. Though she had family to tell her when those things occurred, it was troubling to be unaware of them when alone.

“Then I discovered PAWS, and my life changed,” Koroleski said. “Through the PAWS custom matching process, I received Mater, an Assistance Dog that was custom-trained to help with exactly what I needed.”

When Koroleski learned she was pregnant with her son, she called the PAWS team.

PAWS staff, volunteers and dogs were available at the ceremony for attendees to meet (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

“Mater had already been my Hearing Dog for two and a half years at that point, and he wasn’t originally trained to the sound of a baby’s cries,” said Koroleski.

Within a few weeks of making the call, the PAWS team had trained Mater to alert Koroleski to her baby crying.

“I felt much more prepared to care for my son with Mater by my side,” said Koroleski. “These renovations will allow PAWS to match and custom-train more Assistance Dogs like Mater for clients like me.”

Service Dogs for Children with Autism, known as SDA dogs, are also in high demand, with four applications for every one SDA spot available.

“These children deserve an Assistance Dog that will help them,” said Suchovsky. “We know how important a PAWS Assistance Dog is for a person with a disability.”

It’s time to give back…

For years, local residents have rallied behind PAWS to help those in need.

Deann and Kevin Hurn, Hudsonville residents and volunteer foster puppy raisers, have been volunteering at PAWS for over 13 years, currently fostering their ninth puppy. Recently, Kevin became a PAWS board member.

The help of a PAWS dog can be life-changing (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

When asked why she became involved with PAWS, Deann said, “To give back, to help somebody else. We just feel very blessed with everything God has given us – healthy children, healthy grandchildren – and it’s great to give back.”

Deann is currently hosting a Visiting House Dog in the PAWS program that she brings to Pine Rest Mental Health Hospital every week to visit with the inpatients.

“I come home every week and tell my husband that I was in tears because of what she did for someone, how she loved on them and what it meant to them,” said Deann. “It’s so cool to see.”

Deann heard about PAWS when she met a woman with an Assistance Dog. The woman encouraged Deann to attend the next PAWS meeting.

“I came home and told Kevin, ‘I’m going to this information meeting, but it’s just information.’” Deann paused. “A week later we had our first dog,” she said with a laugh.

One step closer…

(Courtesy, Deborah Reed)

As PAWS renovations begin, excitement is high.

“We are excited that this project will allow us to serve more clients, and our clients are excited too,” said Suchovsky. “We are one step closer to our goals and to creating thriving communities for us all.”

Learn more about the PAWS organization here.

Camp FUN! Camp Blodgett adult fundraiser will feature signature camp activities Sept. 14

2-row, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Education, Entertainment, Kids Activities, Non-Profits, Recreation, Upcoming Events, West Michigan, , , , , , , ,
Adults can join in camp fun at the For the Kids Soiree, an activity-driven adventure! (Courtesy, Camp Blodgett)



By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


Camp Blodgett has been providing youth with educational, recreational and fun experiences for over 100 years. On Saturday, Sept. 14, they are offering adults the chance to join in the fun with their annual For the Kids Soiree!

What started as a traditional sit-down dinner fundraising event has morphed into an activity-driven adventure that gives donors a chance to experience camp life firsthand.

(Courtesy photo)

“Our donors say their favorite parts are the experience and the camp activities,” said Lucy Dyer Joswick, Camp Blodgett Executive Director. “We’re giving people what they’ve requested, which is the opportunity to really immerse themselves in what Camp Blodgett does for kids by actually doing it.”

The soiree provides that adult summer camp experience by the shores of Lake Michigan with popular camp activities such as archery, arts and crafts…and playing with robots.

Attendees will also have the opportunity to connect with camp alumni who have been impacted by Camp Blodgett.

A giant swing is one of the camp’s fun recreational activities (Courtesy, Camp Blodgett)

Camp board member and founder of Experience Granted, Carlos Kulas-Dominguez, has been a driving force behind the Soiree’s reimagining.

Kulas-Dominguez says his focus has been on developing and growing community by amplifying the experience for attendees so they feel empowered to be ambassadors.

Camp Blodgett’s camper population is extremely diverse in representation, which is part of what drew Kulas-Dominguez to the organization.

As a retired teacher, Kulas-Dominguez has always had a passion for helping inner city youth.

“I am a product of inner city Detroit public schools, so I can relate to a lot of the youth at Camp Blodgett, and not ever having that camp experience,” said Kulas-Dominguez.

“The way the youth, and even the staff, are able to show up very authentically is something really unique and really special – specifically to West Michigan. That’s been really fun to watch and be a part of.”

Dress casually…and have fun!

The soiree will be held Saturday, Sept. 14 from 5:30 – 9 p.m. at Camp Blodgett in West Olive.

A traditional happy hour begins at 5:30 p.m. with the main event starting with an opening ceremony similar to that of summer camp at 6:30 p.m.

Archery (Courtesy, Camp Blodgett)

Attendees will be divided into groups and then go through three activity rotations.

Tie-dye and friendship bracelet crafts will be available, as well as archery. With the assistance of Camp Blodgett STEM teachers, 40 robot orbs will be available for event attendees to try their hand at programming an orb to simulate a day in the life of a camper.

If an activity doesn’t sound exciting, participants can buy a Fast Pass, skip a rotation, and try the giant swing or climb the rock wall.

“Attendees definitely want to dress casually,” said Joswick. “Come like you would play at camp.”

A “first date”

Crafts (Courtesy, Camp Blodgett)

Donations are the driving force behind Camp Blodgett’s ability to operate.

The annual For the Kids Soiree is the most impactful event for sustaining camp supporters and recruiting new supporters.

“[The soiree] is where we meet all of our donors that sustain us through the year,” said Joswick. “This is really where a good 20% of our camperships come from.”

Joswick went on to say that the Soiree is often like a “first date” for many because supporters will bring friends to introduce to the organization.

“We are the one and only,” said Joswick. “We are blessed to be Michigan’s only public summer camp that focuses on serving kids who could not otherwise afford to go. A lot of people don’t know that we’re so unique.”

The upside-down model of Camp Blodgett

Since 1921, Camp Blodgett has worked to provide a fun, enriching summer camp experience accessible to all kids in Kent and Ottawa counties.

Founded by the Babies’ Welfare Guild, a group of women associated with D.A. Blodgett Home, the camp has since expanded to be a year-round youth development organization that provides recreational and educational experiences to children who could otherwise not afford them.

(Courtesy photo)

Camp Blodgett’s Summer Camp serves over 500 campers annually, of which 40 are STEM Academy campers. During the school year, the camp serves approximately 200 youth in free school year programs.

When there is a charge for programs, such as the summer camp program, a sliding scale based on family size and income is used.

“80% of our campers pay $40 or less when the cost far exceeds $750,” said Joswick. “[The soiree] raises that gap.”

This camp model was created purposefully so all youth, regardless of income, can have access to camp opportunities.

The magic in saying “Yes”

“Come with an open mind, open heart, and the willingness to connect and be out of your comfort zone,” said Kulas-Dominguez, adding that some planned soiree activities are definitely out of his comfort zone – but he will still participate.

“I think that, as adults, you forget that there’s a lot of magic that happens when we just show up and say yes.”

Find more information and registration details here.

Walk for Apraxia event to benefit children with rare motor speech disorder Sept. 14

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Health, Kent County, Kids Activities, medical moment, Non-Profits, Recreation, Upcoming Events, Voices, West Michigan, , , , ,
The Walk for Apraxia is the largest community event that celebrates the hard work of our apraxia stars (Courtesy, Apraxia Kids)



By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


Raising awareness is a tangible way communities can help children with apraxia thrive (Courtesy, Apraxia Kids)

The 2024 Grand Rapids Walk for Apraxia event will be held on Sept. 14 at Beachwood-Bluffton Park to benefit children with apraxia of speech.

The event begins at 11 a.m. with a ceremony beginning at 12 p.m. Registration is FREE!

Childhood apraxia of speech (CAS) is a rare motor speech disorder that makes it difficult for an individual to speak. Treatment includes intense speech therapy and sometimes other therapies to help individuals reach their highest communication ability. However, there is no cure.

Raising awareness is one of the most tangible ways communities at large can help children with apraxia thrive. Increased collective awareness means that children will be diagnosed faster, resulting in better, earlier intervention.

Celebrating apraxia stars

The Walk for Apraxia is the largest community event that celebrates the hard work of our apraxia stars, children diagnosed with CAS. The day includes family-friendly activities, a ceremony and a short, inclusive group walk to raise awareness.

Neil Kilby, father of an Apraxia Star, says, “Apraxia Stars need a team behind them. That team includes both parents, family members, SLP’s and organizations like Apraxia Kids.”

(Courtesy, Apraxia Kids)

Participating in the Walk for Apraxia helps show Apraxia Stars that there is a team of supporters surrounding them in their community. Invite friends and family to this community event to meet local Apraxia Stars and show support for all of their hard work!

Funds raised through the 2024 Walk for Apraxia benefit Apraxia Kids, the leading nonprofit that works to strengthen the support systems in the lives of children with CAS. Apraxia Kids educates both families and speech-language professionals so that children with CAS can reach their highest communication potential through accurate diagnosis and appropriate, timely treatment.

Event registration

For more information on how to join the Walk for Apraxia, click here.

Back-to-School Jitters: Tips to help your child prepare for school

3-bottom, Area Education, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Education, Health, How-To's, Kent County, West Michigan, , , , , ,

By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


Katrina Newman, WCS Behavioral Analyst (Courtesy, WCS)

Many students feel anxiety as a new school year approaches, no matter their age.

Board certified behavior analyst Katrina Newman of Wedgwood Christian Services (WCS) has developed a 10-point tip sheet to help parents and children prepare for the upcoming school year.

Due to her prior experience as a teacher and currently part of the after school program of the WCS Autism Center for Child Development (ACCD), Newman recognizes that children with autism often struggle with change more than most.

The carefully crafted tip sheet aims to ensure that parents and children – with and without autism – start the year off in comfortable fashion.

Alleviating back-to-school jitters

Changes in routine can be stressful for all ages (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

“Most kids on the spectrum, or even not on the spectrum, feel anxious about going from summer to school,” said Newman. “It’s a big change.

“Anytime there’s a change in routine, it’s really important to have a plan and to practice. That really makes your child more comfortable and helps them to know what to expect.”

Much of the anxiety that comes with starting a new school year can come from not knowing what to expect when they walk in the school doors for the first time.

Some common questions youth have are: Where do we enter the school? Where do we line up? What’s the routine? Did anything change over the summer? Other questions may revolve around getting on the bus for the first time, carpooling for the first time, or having to walk down to the lunchroom.

Having the answers to those questions before the first day of school, Newman says, is really important.

Practice makes perfect

Many schools offer open houses the week before school to help alleviate some of that anxiety. However, there are several other options for parents with anxious children.

“It’s really important to stress that walking through the parking lot and walking through the hallways can be really intimidating, so you want to make sure you practice for safety and that kids know where they’re supposed to go,” says Newman.

Setting up a station at home for notes and permission slips that parents can check regularly also helps. “Have a folder so everybody knows where to put them and parents can check that folder,” Newman says.

Having kids practice their school sleep schedule in advance is also beneficial because it takes 2-3 weeks for our bodies to get used to the change. Even practicing that change a few days in advance can be worthwhile.

“Being consistent, that’s really important,” says Newman. “Whenever you do start it, just keep it going so that their body and their rhythms can get used to getting up a little earlier and going to bed a little earlier then in the summer.”

For children who struggle more with social anxiety, role-playing can be beneficial.

“It’s important to practice introducing yourself and role-play making friends,” Newman says, adding that it can be as simple as telling someone your name, asking for that person’s name, and trying to find something in common with them.

“You might point out something like, ‘You have a Minecraft shirt on – I love Minecraft. What’s your favorite way to play?’” says Newman. “Just looking at those visual cues and trying to connect with people, that’s an important skill.”

Gaining perspective through books

There is also value in reading books to younger children that focus on back-to-school jitters.

Kids might relate to the main character who also feels anxiety or is unsure what to expect. They may also simply feel excitement.

WCS book recommendations to prepare your child for the first day of school (Courtesy, WCS)


“As they read, they’ll have a pretty good idea of what the first day will look like,” says Newman. “[The book] has a lot of details that they might not bring up, but then after reading the book you can discuss that. It’s really good to open up that conversation.”

How to start a conversation with your child

For parents who are unsure how to approach their child about whether or not they feel anxious, Newman says to keep it simple.

School Education Student (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

“Just have a simple conversation where you ask them, ‘What do you think about going back to school? We’re going back next Tuesday, what are you thinking about?’” Newman says. “That way it’s more that they can tell you if they’re excited, they can tell you if they’re worried. They get to tell you how they feel instead of you saying: ‘Are you worried?’”

Is routine necessary?

Humans, regardless of age, lifestyle, or background, thrive on routine and benefit from having an established schedule.

According to the Blue Sprig website, routines are key to helping us thrive because routine comes naturally, provides stress relief and brings order to an otherwise chaotic world.

(Courtesy, pxhere.com)

Routines are particularly helpful for children with autism due to the repetitive patterns of behavior, activities, and hobbies. The adherence to an established routine can be a powerful tool in bringing stability and comfort to any child’s life.

Daily routines can:

  • Build a stronger caregiver-child connection
  • Reduce power struggles and stress
  • Improve cooperation
  • Foster a genuine sense of ownership over their day
  • Create an environment of security and comfort

Removing any routine in a child’s life can be stressful. Newman says the most important thing is to talk about all changes in routine with kids, emphasizing what they can expect during that season of change.

Summer Surge: Is COVID-19 here to stay?

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Health, Kent County, medical moment, West Michigan, , , , ,
U.S. health officials now consider COVID-19 an endemic disease which essentially means that COVID is here to stay in fairly predictable ways (Courtesy, KCHD)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


Cases are rising across the United States and many people have experienced the uptick over the past few weeks. They’ve either tested positive themselves or know someone else who has.

Health officials consider COVID-19 here to stay (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

In fact, U.S. health officials now consider COVID-19 an endemic disease which essentially means that COVID is here to stay in fairly predictable ways.

“COVID-19 is one of those viruses that behaves differently than other respiratory viruses like flu and RSV. COVID-19 infections are driven more by human behavior and immunity than weather patterns or seasons,” said Andrew Jameson, MD, an infectious disease specialist with Trinity Health Medical Group in Grand Rapids. “We’re going to have to learn to live with it.”

According to Dr. Jameson, a reason why COVID-19 cases are starting to rise: the virus has evolved to be a very good spreader, allowing it to infect people even if they have several layers of protection from past infection, vaccine, or booster. People become susceptible to an infection again not all that long after their most recent infection or booster shot.

“Despite immunity to new infection waning, most of the recent cases that result in hospitalization are in people who did not get the most up to date vaccine” said Dr. Jameson. “We do find, however, that protection with the vaccine against severe illness does hold up over time for most people.”

Are there new COVID-19 variants this year?

Since the original Omicron variants emerged back in 2021, the virus has continued to evolve and mutate – this is what viruses do.

Currently, the CDC is monitoring a trio of variants — called KP.3, KP.2, and LB.1 — that are on the upswing.

What are the symptoms now, and have they changed?

Many COVID-19 symptoms have stayed the same since 2020: fever, sore throat, coughing.

Many COVID symptoms have remained the same since its inception – however, there are some variants (Courtesy photo)

Other symptoms have shifted: it used to be common for people to lose their sense of taste and smell when they got sick, but that now seems to happen less frequently.

If you’ve been infected before, it’s important to understand that symptoms can vary from one infection to the next. It may actually feel like an entirely different illness. Or, you may experience the same symptoms, but in a different order.

COVID-19 symptoms include:

  • Fever or chills
  • Cough
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Sore throat
  • Congestion or runny nose
  • New loss of taste or smell
  • Fatigue
  • Muscle or body aches
  • Headache
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Diarrhea

“No two COVID infections behave exactly the same,” said Dr. Jameson. “In general, the more immunity a person builds up – from infections or vaccinations – the symptoms of another infection tend to be milder. But there’s no guarantee.”

How long do test kits last?

If you’re not feeling well and have trouble finding new at-home tests to purchase at your local pharmacy, you may wonder if you can use older test kits you may have.

The FDA says that tests should not be used beyond their expiration date.

“Medical” pieces of a COVID-19 home test kit (Chicago.gov)

I may have COVID. What should I do?

The CDC recommends treating COVID-19 just like other respiratory viruses such as flu and RSV:

  • Stay home and away from others (including people you live with who are not sick) if you have symptoms that aren’t better explained by another cause.
  • CDC guidelines say people should isolate for five days from their first symptoms, after which they can be around other people if they’ve been fever-free for 24 hours and wear masks inside.
  • Seek health care promptly for testing and/or treatment if you have risk factors for severe illness.
    • Treatment may help lower your risk of severe illness.

For people whose immunity is impaired by disease or transplantation, there is a new treatment available: a monoclonal antibody called pemivibart (sold as Pemgarda) provides a similar level of protection as vaccines do for everyone else. However, it is expensive and given by infusion.

When should I get a COVID-19 booster shot?

The COVID-19 vaccination can help protect against the virus (U.S. Government)

Vaccines and boosters continue to be the go-to protections against severe illness from the virus.

“For those who are at high risk for severe illness – the very elderly, the elderly with comorbidities, and those who are immunocompromised – go ahead and get a booster vaccine now. The vaccines are still active against some of the circulating variants,” Jameson said.

“By the time the new vaccine comes out in a few months or so, you’ll be eligible to get another shot toward the late fall.

“For those whose risks are a bit lower, you can wait until the fall boosters come out.”

If you have any questions about COVID-19 as it relates to your health, or when it’s best for you to get a booster vaccine, talk to your doctor.

Back-to-Cafeteria: How to help kids who struggle with eating as new school year begins

3-bottom, Area Education, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Education, Food, Health, How-To's, Kent County, West Michigan, , , ,
Eating meals at school can be challenging for many students (Courtesy, pxhere.com)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


For some children heading back to school this fall, their biggest challenge may not be reading or math but, rather, something else that’s critical to their academic success: eating meals at school.

Children can experience all types of difficulties with eating, from limited diets (“picky eating”) to feeding and swallowing disorders, according to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). Feeding challenges may occur due to a medical problem or in conjunction with other developmental differences or disorders.

Regardless of the reason, all children need appropriate nutrition and hydration to learn and participate in the school day.

(Courtesy, pxhere.com)

Cafeteria Struggles

The cafeteria can present numerous challenges for children who have difficulty eating. These include:

  • Overwhelming sensory environment. The cafeteria can be loud, crowded, and hot. The sights and smells may bother some kids. The tables may be sticky, and the cafeteria benches may be uncomfortable. None of these factors makes eating easy or fun. Some students may require a distraction-free environment to safely eat.
  • Time constraints. Students often have a small amount of time to eat—usually, much shorter than they are used to having at home. Students receiving feeding and/or swallowing treatment may need more time to eat. This accommodation may be included in a child’s individualized education program (IEP).
  • School-based food restrictions. Some schools have rules about foods that children can or cannot bring, such as no peanut products. For kids who have limited diets, it’s not always easy to find alternatives to a preferred food. Also, some children may not have options if they are provided free or reduced-price meals at school. If a student has a documented feeding or swallowing disorder and requires a modified diet, then the school district’s food services program must offer the meal accommodations recommended in the student’s feeding and swallowing plan.

school, education, learning (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

Twelve Tips for Success

ASHA offers these tips to parents and caregivers to help their child eat successfully in the school setting:

  1. Make their lunch gear fun. Let kids pick out a lunchbox with their favorite character or theme, or a Thermos® or bento box of their choice. Alternatively, have them decorate or personalize a basic lunchbox or other items that they already have.
  2. Help them prepare. Have kids practice eating in the time they’ll be given at school. Try this for a few days before school starts. If you’re sending in containers or prepackaged food or drinks, make sure that they can open them first before packing such items in their lunchbox.
  3. Go grocery shopping together. Look for new items that they may want to bring—or meal ideas to try. Be sure to try them at home first.
  4. Brainstorm ideas. Write out a menu of options that are reasonable for you to prepare. Make sure that these foods can also be eaten at school easily (e.g., foods that don’t need to be cut up or kept at a very specific temperature). Have them choose their lunch from that menu each day.
  5. Let them pack their meal. Kids love to take ownership and show some independence. They’ll be much more likely to eat what they choose to pack. If you don’t feel comfortable giving them total control, offer choices—let them pick one “main course,” one “side dish,” and one “dessert” out of items that you have pre-selected. Do this the night before, so you aren’t stressed or in a rush the next morning.
  6. Troubleshoot together. Ask your child what makes eating in the cafeteria difficult. For example, maybe they don’t have enough time to eat when they buy lunch. Talk it through with them and see if you can solve the issue together.
  7. Send foods that your child is comfortable eating. You may desperately want to expand your child’s diet, but you also want to maximize the likelihood that they’ll eat at school so they’re nourished properly during the day. Save the experimentation for home.
  8. Aim for foods that will keep them full, but don’t stress over perfect meals. Ideal foods are ones that are protein-rich and/or high in fiber because they’ll keep kids full for longer. But remember, the best foods are the ones that your child will actually eat.
  9. Don’t obsess over what they didn’t eat. It’s frustrating when you spend time carefully packing a lunch—only to notice that it comes home lukewarm and untouched. Ask your child why they didn’t eat their meal: Did they not like it? Or did they just not have time to eat it? Try not to scold them about the uneaten food.
  10. Arrange for your child to have a lunch buddy. Eating with a friend is always more fun. A lunch buddy can be a support—and even a role model—for trying new foods. Talk to the school staff about finding a willing peer for this role.
  11. Talk to the cafeteria manager or other school staff. If your child is provided meals at school and isn’t eating what is served, check with the school about alternative options. If a child is regularly not eating the food provided, then this lack of needed nutrition likely will impact their learning and/or behavior.
  12. Help your child to advocate for themselves. If your child has an IEP with feeding and swallowing goals and accommodations, help them understand what their goals are and what they can safely eat.

(Courtesy, Kids’ Food Basket)

Getting Help for Feeding Problems

Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) help children who have difficulties with their feeding and swallowing. Feeding and swallowing disorders can lead to health, learning, and social problems, so it’s important not to minimize these challenges.

SLPs can help children try new foods or textures, can help parents feel more confident feeding their child, and can provide feeding therapy (e.g., using certain exercises to strengthen the muscles in their mouth, moving their tongue around more while eating or drinking).

Children with a diagnosed feeding or swallowing disorder may need additional support eating in school, including modified food and drink consistencies. These students should have an IEP or 504 plan to guide school-based treatment and accommodations.

They also may have a swallowing and feeding program (which is typically designed by an SLP) and/or an individual health plan (which is typically designed by a school nurse).

If you have concerns about your child’s eating, talk to your pediatrician and seek an evaluation from the school-based SLP or from a private SLP who specializes in feeding and swallowing. You can find one at www.asha.org/profind.

Wyoming mobile food pantry to be held Monday, Aug. 26

Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Food, Going Local, Health, Kent County, Our Cities, Upcoming Events, West Michigan, , ,



By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


Wyoming Public Schools (WPS) has partnered with Feeding America Mobile Pantry to host a Mobile Pantry once a month.

*WHS August Mobile Food Pantry will be held Monday, Aug. 26 from 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.

What to expect

Though the selection of food varies each month, there are always a variety of fresh and frozen items available at the Mobile Pantry.

The Mobile Pantry is drive-thru style, and families are asked to remain in their vehicles for safety.



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WHS Mobile Food Pantry Map (Courtesy, WPS)


Cars enter at the main entrance to WHS (1350 Prairie Parkway). Volunteers will direct traffic in the parking lot to help with efficiency.

Once in line, a volunteer will approach each car to record the name, address, number of people in the household, and the reason the food is needed for each family. Once a car has reached the front of the line, volunteers will load a box of food into the trunk.

Resources

To learn more about Feeding America West Michigan and the services they offer, click here.

For the Feeding America Mobile Food Pantry schedule, click here.