Greetings,

By now you know Michigan averted a long and disruptive government shutdown and passed a funding bill in the early morning hours of Oct. 1. There were attempts to not fund programs and services Michiganders rely on, but House Democrats fought back for you — and won. From health care to child welfare and education, this budget helps keep Michigan’s families whole. Inside you’ll find more information about the budget, my work around domestic violence awareness and other things I’m working on in Lansing for you! 

Now the fight is on to ensure families who rely on SNAP food assistance benefits are supported as the federal government pauses payments to states for this critical program. In this issue you will find resource information on who to contact for support.  

As always, feel free to reach out with your thoughts about policies, community resources and compliments and any difficulties accessing food support during the SNAP program pause, by email at [email protected] or by phone at (517) 373-2576. I appreciate hearing from you!

Peace & blessings,

Rep. Steph

Stephanie A. Young

State Representative

House District 16

Love Is The Work!

 

 

 

 

OCTOBER Reflections: Domestic Violence Awareness Month in Michigan

As some of you may know, I am a child survivor of domestic violence. Growing up as  “Daddy’s little girl” while at the same time watching this same father I adored verbally abusing my mother was traumatizing and confusing. As an adult, I found that living in that environment had had unknown negative effects on my life. It wasn’t until I was married with children that I found my anxiety levels would rise just hearing my sons raise their voices while simply playing. My heart would beat faster and faster and it would take me back to my childhood.  

This is one reason I am an avid advocate against domestic violence.  During the month of October, the theme of my community conversation was on domestic violence awareness and legislation I have been working on with survivor Titiana Grant. I also led my fourth Domestic Violence Awareness Month community march in Brightmoor and participated in a resource fair that immediately followed. I introduced House Resolution 185, declaring October 2025 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month in Michigan. And lastly, I introduced House Bill 5174, which addresses gaps in sentencing regarding convicted domestic violence abusers, which was brought to my attention through Ms. Grant’s story.

Standing Together for CIT Training at the Capitol

I was honored to co-host a brunch-and-learn on Crisis Intervention Teams Training. This is a 40-hour course for law enforcement that teaches officers how to safely de-escalate and respond to mental health crises in the community. 

Standing Together for CIT Training at the Capitol

I was honored to co-host a brunch-and-learn on Crisis Intervention Teams Training. This is a 40-hour course for law enforcement that teaches officers how to safely de-escalate and respond to mental health crises in the community. 

SNAP Benefits Being Paused Nov. 1 

We know millions of Michiganders may be affected by the pause of SNAP benefits. If you or someone you know needs help, please share these resources:

Resources across Michigan for food security:

  • SNAP participants should reach out to their local MDHHS office with any questions regarding their SNAP benefits or check MI Bridges for updates.
  • Dial 2-1-1 or visit Find Help – Michigan 2-1-1 for free, confidential assistance and referrals to local food programs and support services.
  • Visit the Food Bank Council of Michigan to locate nearby food banks and learn about additional hunger relief efforts.
  • This interactive map from Gleaners has information about soup kitchens, food pantries and mobile delivery units in and around Wayne County and the Detroit metro area. The map is comprehensive and includes contact information, hours of operation and details on the services provided at each location. 

Some locations may require registration with Gleaners’ Link2Feed program. Sign-up is free, easy and can take place in-person at certain food pantry locations included in the map.

Budget Wins for the District and Across the State!

As a public servant, I am always working in the best interest of Michiganders across the state and at home in our district. As a seasoned policymaker in my third term, I continue to make sure the voices of those I serve are at the forefront of the decisions I make.

In this budget, I was able to bring home needed dollars to the district and I proudly voted “YES” to support Michiganders by giving relief to individuals, working families and seniors by eliminating taxes on tips and overtime, expanding certain social security tax deductions and ensuring school meals continue for students.

Other big wins include:

  • $300,000 for the Brightmoor Connection Food Pantry
  • $5 million for water affordability
  • Over $15 million to continue Community Violence Intervention programs
  • $270 million to expand Rx Kids program supporting expecting moms and babies 
  • Nearly $30 billion to continue core Medicaid services 

Detroit Veterans Day Parade Corp: You’re Invited

I’m honored to celebrate Veterans Day in the District, gathering to remember the sacrifices of our dedicated men and women, celebrating their enduring legacy of courage, commitment and service. 

Here in Michigan, veterans have shaped our communities with quiet strength and unwavering dedication. They are our neighbors, our mentors, our leaders — and today, we say thank you.

Remember, the Detroit Veterans Day Parade and 4Star 4Mile Race is happening this year on Nov. 9. The Step-off Opening Ceremony begins at 9 a.m. in Corktown, Detroit, anchored at the IBEW Local 58 Union Hall on Abbott Street, just off Trumbull.

Around the State and District

Photo: Kappa Alpha Pi, University of Michigan October guest speaker

Better Made Chip Company Tour. I am proud to be the Chair of the Detroit Caucus, joining my other colleagues from around Detroit at the Better Made Chip company, celebrating 95 years of making GREAT snacks. We presented a tribute with signatures from each member for the occasion.