The Michigan State Police (MSP) and Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) are working together on a new, innovative program to aid Michigan residents who have immediate and urgent needs.
The Safety Net Partnership is a unique collaboration between the two state agencies that empowers troopers across the state to provide support and assistance in certain circumstances.
Through the program, troopers can provide $25 pre-paid Visa and Mastercard gift cards to individuals they encounter while on patrol when there is a clear and apparent need. The gift cards can be used for items and services such as groceries, diapers and formula, gas and car repairs.
Troopers also have access to a supply of items that includes child car seats, portable cribs, diapers, formula, adult briefs and cold weather outerwear, along with information to connect those in need to more permanent assistance programs through MDHHS.
The program was piloted in the MSP’s First, Third and Sixth districts in mid-2021 and, following several successes, it has been formalized and expanded statewide through a three-year interagency agreement.
During the pilot, 328 Michigan residents benefited with 138 cards and items issued, which helped prevent infractions like faulty vehicle equipment and minor criminal violations.
For example, one driver who was stopped for defective headlights received a gift card to repair their headlights, as well as a car seat for their 3-year-old child because they could not afford one.
Funding for this program comes from MDHHS’ Emergency Services budget and is $72,000 per year.
The Safety Net Partnership is a unique collaboration between the two state agencies that empowers troopers across the state to provide support and assistance in certain circumstances.
Through the program, troopers can provide $25 pre-paid Visa and Mastercard gift cards to individuals they encounter while on patrol when there is a clear and apparent need. The gift cards can be used for items and services such as groceries, diapers and formula, gas and car repairs.
Troopers also have access to a supply of items that includes child car seats, portable cribs, diapers, formula, adult briefs and cold weather outerwear, along with information to connect those in need to more permanent assistance programs through MDHHS.
The program was piloted in the MSP’s First, Third and Sixth districts in mid-2021 and, following several successes, it has been formalized and expanded statewide through a three-year interagency agreement.
During the pilot, 328 Michigan residents benefited with 138 cards and items issued, which helped prevent infractions like faulty vehicle equipment and minor criminal violations.
For example, one driver who was stopped for defective headlights received a gift card to repair their headlights, as well as a car seat for their 3-year-old child because they could not afford one.
Funding for this program comes from MDHHS’ Emergency Services budget and is $72,000 per year.
