GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., Sept. 18, 2024 — Alongside fellow state and local elected officials, state Rep. Carol Glanville (D-Walker) presented four checks on Sept. 16 in celebration of state budget investments aimed at enhancing public services, improving quality of life and supporting economic growth in Kent County. The funds will benefit Meals on Wheels, the City of Grand Rapids Solar Array at Butterworth Landfill, the Grand Rapids Civic Theatre and St. Mark’s Community Center.
“Meals on Wheels, the city of Grand Rapids Solar Array at Butterworth Landfill, the Grand Rapids Civic Theatre and St. Mark’s Community Center are not just important partners for the 84th Michigan House District, but the region, and indeed, the state,” Glanville said. “Each of these projects, in their own way, serves our community through vital arts and culture programming, health and welfare support to seniors and the unhoused, and investment in green energy. I am proud to have successfully advocated for these investments and the continued work and commitment to making West Michigan a better place for all.”
Glanville was joined by fellow state and local leaders for the check presentations, each held at the respective organizations receiving funding. Elected officials in attendance throughout the day included State Reps. Phil Skaggs (D-East Grand Rapids) and John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming), Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks (D-Grand Rapids), state Sen. Mark Huizenga (R-Walker), Grandville Mayor Steve Maas and Grand Rapids Mayor Rosalyn Bliss.
“These investments show our commitment to a community-centered approach to addressing homelessness, food insecurity, celebrating local history and lowering the cost of energy,” Glanville continued. I am grateful to those doing this critical work in our community. West Michigan wouldn’t be the special place that it is without you.”
These budget wins will benefit the people of Kent County greatly. Meals on Wheels West Michigan serves 6,000 homebound seniors in Kent and Allegan counties, delivering upwards of 650,000 meals and 1 million pounds of groceries every year. This state funding will allow them to expand services. The Butterworth Landfill Solar Array, once finished, will power the city-owned electric distribution system that powers 18,000 streetlights and 120 facilities. The Grand Rapids Civic Theater funding will allow for growth and expansion of programming. St. Mark’s Community Center will expand services for the homeless, including basic medical care in partnership with MSU School of Human Medicine, haircuts, weekend meals, and clothing donations.
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