Congratulations to our 2025 Grant Award Winner, Peaceful Hugs!!!!

Learn more about this great organization by visiting their website here.

Project Summary: Peaceful Hugs is a grassroots nonprofit serving vulnerable families, seniors, and at-risk youth across Southeast Michigan, with a focus on Macomb County. Our mission is to promote health equity and stability by offering wraparound services that meet critical basic needs. Our project, “Bridging the Health Gap: Wraparound Support for Underserved Families and Seniors,” is designed to help those facing housing instability, food insecurity, transportation barriers, and limited access to healthcare or mental health resources. Many of our clients are part of the ALICE population (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) and are working hard yet unable to afford essentials. Others are experiencing homelessness or staying in motels after eviction, often with no access to other forms of assistance. We provide targeted, compassionate support that includes:

• Emergency assistance for motel stays, rent, utilities, and basic needs

• Food delivery and grocery support

• Clothing, hygiene supplies, and school materials

• Transportation to essential appointments

• Referrals to medical, dental, and mental health services

• Youth mentorship and life skills coaching through our Uplifting U program

This holistic model is grounded in the understanding that families cannot achieve long-term health or educational success without stability. We meet people where they are and offer individualized help that addresses root causes. We work closely with schools, social workers, and community organizations to identify and serve those in greatest need. While we have no formal co-applicants for this project, our trusted relationships ensure rapid coordination and greater impact. With Impact100 funding, Peaceful Hugs will expand our reach, improve service coordination, and provide immediate relief and long-term hope to more families and seniors in crisis.