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Memorial Day marks Michigan’s start to picnic and barbeque season. The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) urges everyone to prioritize food safety to prevent foodborne illnesses. Here are essential tips: If you suspect you have eaten something that has made you ill, please seek medical attention and report your illness to Van […]

Despite wage growth, financial struggles persist in Southwest Michigan and across the state, with over 1.7 million households living paycheck to paycheck. The latest ALICE (ALICE: Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) Update highlights the challenges faced by working families, revealing a decade-long trend of rising financial hardship. Racial disparities, high childcare costs, and limited access to food assistance contribute

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 22, 2024 CONTACT: Chelsea Wuth, 517-241-2112, WuthC@michigan.gov Lansing, Mich. – Michigan’s health authorities confirm the first case of influenza A (H5) in a farmworker with livestock exposure. While the individual has recovered, vigilance remains crucial. The state emphasizes collaboration and precautionary measures to mitigate risks. Read the complete press release here.

With the 2024 North American wildfire season underway and warmer weather increasing ozone levels, residents are being advised by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) on how to stay healthy during poor air quality days. Key Tips for Staying Healthy Preparation Steps Actions During Poor Air Quality Days For more detailed guidance,

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) has identified highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in dairy herds located in Clinton, Gratiot, and Ionia counties. This detection was made through the Michigan State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, with confirmatory testing underway at the USDA’s National Veterinary Services Laboratories. Biosecurity remains the primary defense against

In observance of National Prevention Week from May 12-18, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) acknowledges the dedicated work of prevention providers across the state in combatting substance use disorder and advancing mental health awareness. MDHHS Director Elizabeth Hertel praises the crucial contributions of prevention workers, emphasizing their diverse services’ importance in

Wondering why you should buy local? Here are some good reasons: Ready to explore the best of Van Buren County’s food, farms, and fun? Download and preview your guide today and join us in celebrating all the wonderful things our local community has to offer! Preview and download your own copy of the guide here.

Michigan’s Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is allocating $1.3 million from opioid settlement dollars to enhance support for pregnant individuals and families affected by substance use disorder (SUD). This investment expands the rooming-in approach to care for substance-exposed infants in five birthing hospitals across the state. Rooming-in allows caregivers and infants to stay

MDARD Director Tim Boring has confirmed highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) cases in dairy herds across Allegan, Clinton, Gratiot, Ingham, and Isabella counties. The Michigan State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory confirmed these cases, with samples sent to USDA’s National Veterinary Services Laboratory for further testing. Biosecurity measures are crucial to combat HPAI. Director Boring’s “Emergency

In response to severe weather wreaking havoc in West Michigan, Attorney General Dana Nessel is sounding the alarm on potential scams targeting residents grappling with storm aftermath. With Governor Whitmer’s declaration of a state of emergency for several counties, Nessel highlights the critical need for caution against fraudulent schemes. Residents are urged to engage in