Salvation Army Partners with Michigan Department of Health and Human Services
The Salvation Army recently partnered with Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) and several health organizations to help Michiganders with the renewal process for their Medicaid benefits. Redetermination of Medicaid coverage restarted this year due to federal legislation, after being paused during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The event was held September 30 at the Kroc Center in Grand Rapids and was organized by The Salvation Army Harbor Light System and was open to the public.
“We see the faces of those struggling every day at The Salvation Army,” said Harbor Light Executive Director Jamie Winkler. “Whether they are battling homelessness, mental health issues or substance abuse, everyone deserves health insurance. And if they need our help, we want to do our best to be there for them.”
Volunteer navigators and certified financial counselors were able to provide guidance on completing renewal paperwork, by providing guidance and answering questions about the renewal process. Computers were also available. In all about 20-30 people received assistance, including several Salvation Army clients.
“Medicaid plays a vital role in ensuring millions of individuals, families and children have access to essential health care services,” said Amy Assenmacher, Senior Vice President, Finance Revenue Cycle, Corewell Health. “Our certified application counselors were on hand to help people with the renewal process.”
"A lot of people in Michigan are not aware that they need to renew their Medicaid plan before next spring to keep their health coverage because they didn't have to during the pandemic,” said Meridian in Michigan’s Plan President and CEO, Patricia Graham. “It was wonderful, engaging with the Grand Rapids community and hosting this event with our longtime partners at the Salvation Army.”
“MDHHS and valued partners continue to do all that we can to preserve Medicaid coverage for qualifying Michigan families,” said MDHHS Director Elizabeth Hertel. “We want to be sure that as many Michiganders as possible can continue to receive Medicaid coverage so that they can keep their families healthy.”
If you know someone who needs to complete the renewal process, all individuals will need to bring proof of their age and all sources of income. To see what documents, they need to bring, and for more information on the renewal process, visit Michigan.gov/MIBridges.