Dear Neighbor,
Here is some information that I hope you will find helpful, including updates and news from your state government.
Free HIV Testing for World AIDS Day
In observance of World AIDS Day, the Ingham County Health Department (ICHD) is providing free, confidential and anonymous walk-in HIV testing. This takes place today, Dec. 1, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Forest Community Health Center (2316 S. Cedar St. in Lansing). Everyone who is tested will receive a $5 or $10 Meijer gift card. No picture I.D. or insurance is required. For more information, contact the ICHD HIV/STI prevention program at (517) 887-4424 or click here.
Child Care Stabilization Grant Applications Close Next Week
The window for Child Care Stabilization Grant applications closes on Wednesday, Dec. 8. Under this program, child care providers in Michigan can apply for bonuses of up to $1,000 for their staff. Funds will become available on Jan. 10, 2022. Eligible providers include licensed child care centers, licensed family homes and group homes, and tribal-based child care. Head Start and Great Start Readiness Programs that provide tuition-based child care are also eligible. This is not a competitive grant, so all eligible providers should apply. Find more information and apply here.
CDC Recommends All Vaccinated Adults Receive COVID-19 Booster
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently recommended that all vaccinated adults receive a COVID-19 booster shot six months after receiving their second COVID-19 vaccine shot. Everyone ages 5 and older in Michigan is eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. In addition to the health department, Sparrow Health Systems, Rite Aid, Walgreens, Meijer, and other pharmacies offer the vaccine and the booster.
Medicare Enrollment Period Open Through Dec. 7
The Medicare open enrollment period closes Tuesday, Dec. 7. During this period, you can shop for your Medicare 2022 Prescription Drug Plan or make changes to current Medicare coverage. Coverage for newly selected plans begins Jan. 1. Even if you are happy with your current plan, it is recommended that you take the time to compare and make sure you are receiving the best possible coverage.
The Michigan Medicare/Medicaid Assistance Program (MMAP) offers Medicare beneficiaries and their families assistance with understanding the eligibility process, enrollment, coverage, medical bills, Medicare supplementals, and long-term care insurance. To get connected with a MMAP Counselor near you, call (800) 803-7174, or go to https://mmapinc.org/ and click on “Get Started.”
Sincerely,
Kara Hope
State Representative