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There is just one week to go before the April 15th tax deadline hits. Qualified Washtenaw County residents can access free tax preparation assistance from trained professionals. The amount of credits and refunds some are receiving are proving to be life changing. Megan Thibus from the United Way for Southeastern Michigan discusses the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program in a conversation with WEMU's David Fair.
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Many believe the childcare system is broken in Michigan. Inadequate quality and affordable childcare are adversely impacting kids and families and is estimated to cost the state of Michigan nearly $3 billion in economic activity. Etta King Heisler believes childcare is a key driver in community equity. Etta is executive director of Apple Playschools in Ann Arbor and joined WEMU's David Fair to discuss the childcare crisis and what needs to be done.
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UM researchers plan to track health and career outcomes from the group of recipients. WEMU's Taylor Bowie has more.
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Local officials and Democrats in the Legislature are calling for a state fund to help low-income households avoid water service shutoffs because they can’t afford to pay their bills. We have more from Rick Pluta.
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The cost of living continues to rise, and affordable, quality childcare is at a premium. Now, imagine trying to create a better life by going to college, working a job and having to find the kind of care your child deserves on a limited budget. Alleviating some of that stress is the mission behind The Collaborative: Ypsilanti YMCA Child Development Center. WEMU's David Fair talked with center liaison Kaitlyn Savage about the difference it’s making and what more needs to be done.
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State officials say they plan on mailing out checks in February to Michigan households that claimed the Earned Income Tax Credit on this year’s filings. Colin Jackson has more.
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What do you do in the cold of winter if you can't pay your heating bill? Sadly, thousands in the area face that crisis question. There are some resources available, and, on "Washtenaw United," you'll learn how to tap into them. Sean Scane is director of utility assistance with the United Way for Southeastern Michigan. He joined WEMU's David Fair with the latest information on the growing need for assistance and the efforts to expand the Michigan Energy Assistance Program.
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Bills to create a new water affordability program received a hearing Thursday before a Michigan House committee. Colin Jackson has more.
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Eastern Michigan University will expand their free tuition program, allowing Pell Grant eligible students to receive additional aid. WEMU’s Taylor Bowie reports.
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Starting today, the Guaranteed Income pilot program in Ann Arbor is now accepting applications for participants. WEMU’s Josh Hakala reports.