Partnering with Barry County Cares for Winter Support – Community Help at Your Doorstep

Barry County Cares

Barry County Cares stands as a pillar of support for residents facing winter challenges in 2026, offering targeted assistance in utilities, housing, medical needs, and household items. As a faith-based non-profit rooted in our community, they connect people with essential resources, partnering with local churches and organizations to ensure no one slips through the cracks during Michigan's harsh season. With Barry's low poverty rate of 8% but rural isolation in townships like Prairieville or Orangeville, their programs are a lifeline for families, seniors, and individuals.

Core services include utility bill aid, helping with heating costs when temperatures drop—applications are open year-round via their website at barrycountycares.org. For housing and rent support, they collaborate with the Barry County Commission on Aging, providing up to $300 per household through programs like the Diocese of Kalamazoo's home heating assistance (covering Barry among nine counties). Medical and dental help is facilitated through referrals to BEDHD clinics, while personal care items like winter clothing are distributed via their network.

Food security is a focus, with mobile pantries scheduled January 17, 2026, bringing fresh produce and staples to underserved areas. Partner churches like Hastings First United Methodist host weekly distributions, tying into Barry County United Way's food resources list at bcunitedway.org/get-help/food-resources. Donations are encouraged—non-perishables or funds support these efforts, with matches from local businesses.

For seniors, the Commission on Aging offers Meals on Wheels deliveries and friendship visits, combating winter loneliness. Their site at barrycounty.org/commission_on_aging_new details volunteer-driven programs. Mental health tie-ins with BCCMHA provide 24/7 support, as highlighted on their Facebook at facebook.com/BCCMHA.

Barry County Cares emphasizes accessibility—stop by their Hastings office or call (269) 945-0606 for a 2026 Support Plan, including ID docs and benefits navigation. Their Instagram posts winter wellness tips, like prioritizing mental health alongside physical.

Volunteering or donating builds community—events like coat drives involve churches like Pleasantview Family Church. This non-profit's work strengthens Barry's fabric, supporting our 64,000 residents through collaborative efforts.

Explore full profiles and contacts in our Community Services directory. Links to ccdok.org/home-heating-assistance for diocesan aid. Partner with them this winter—help is closer than you think!