Coats. Heat. Power outages. Warming centers. Holiday help. Let's talk about the things families should know before winter hits.
Michigan weather has a way of reminding us that winter isn't just about snow.
It's about how much the heating bill costs.
It's about wondering whether the kids' coats from last year still fit.
It's about trying to keep everyone warm when the power goes out.
It's about figuring out where you can go if your house gets too cold.
It's about making sure your kids have boots, gloves, hats and everything else they need for school.
And then, before you know it, the holidays are here, too.
For moms, dads, grandparents and caregivers, winter can bring a whole new list of things to worry about.
So let's talk about some resources and ideas that are worth knowing before you actually need them.
First: Michigan Winter Weather Can Become a Safety Issue
A major Michigan winter storm can bring heavy snow, freezing rain, strong winds, dangerous cold and power outages.
The state recommends that households be prepared to shelter in place for at least three days and have things such as blankets, food, water, flashlights and other emergency supplies available. Michigan.gov
But here's the part that doesn't always get talked about:
Not every family has the ability to simply “prepare” for winter.
Maybe money is already tight.
Maybe your furnace isn't working properly.
Maybe your children outgrew their coats.
Maybe you live in a home that doesn't hold heat well.
Maybe you don't have a generator.
Maybe you have a baby in the house.
Maybe someone in your family relies on electricity for medical equipment.
Those things matter.
And that's why knowing where to turn before an emergency happens can make a huge difference.
Does Your Family Have a Winter Coat Plan?
Kids grow.
Fast.
That coat that fit perfectly last winter?
Yeah... probably not anymore.
And Michigan winters aren't exactly forgiving when a child doesn't have a warm coat, boots, gloves or a hat.
The good news is that winter clothing assistance exists throughout Michigan.
Michigan 211 can help families search for clothing and household resources, including children's clothing and other basic necessities. Michigan 211
And here in Genesee County, there are organizations specifically helping children stay warm.
Old Newsboys of Flint
The Old Newsboys of Flint operates a Coat and Shoe/Boot Program for children in Genesee County.
Their program provides new winter coats for qualifying children and has specific eligibility requirements and limited quantities, so families are encouraged to contact them ahead of time. Old Newsboys of Flint
Crossover Outreach
Crossover Outreach in Flint also provides basic-needs assistance, including warm winter coats, hats, gloves, scarves and other clothing items when available. CROSSOVER OUTREACH
The takeaway?
Don't wait until the first snowstorm to start looking.
If your child needs a coat, boots or winter clothing, start asking now.
And Then There Are the Holiday Programs
Winter and the holidays often arrive at the same time, which can create another layer of financial pressure for families.
This is where programs like Angel Trees, Christmas assistance and adopt-a-family programs can help.
The Salvation Army's Flint Christmas Assistance Program says it serves families in Genesee County and may provide toys, coats, pajamas and holiday food boxes for qualifying families. The organization specifically encourages families to enroll early because space is limited. The Salvation Army USA
The Salvation Army Flint Citadel also provides information, referrals and seasonal assistance for Genesee County families. The Salvation Army USA
And Angel Tree programs can vary by community, so families should check with their local Salvation Army for current enrollment information rather than assuming every location works the same way. The Salvation Army USA
Here's our biggest holiday tip:
Don't wait until December 20th to start asking about Christmas assistance.
Many programs have application periods, registration deadlines or limited spots.
If your family could use help, start looking early.
What Happens If the Power Goes Out?
This is one of those things you don't really think about until you're sitting in a cold house thinking:
“Okay... where do we go?”
Michigan specifically recommends going to a designated public shelter or warming center if your home loses power or heat during periods of extreme cold. Michigan.gov
And Michigan's Public Service Commission says that if you need a warming center because your power is out, you can call 211 or check with your local government to find the closest available location. Michigan.gov
That is important because warming centers aren't necessarily permanent locations.
A community center might open during an extreme cold event.
A library might serve as a warming location.
A church or community organization may open its doors.
A city facility may activate as a warming center.
But don't assume a building is open just because it has been used as a warming center before.
Call first or check current local emergency information.
Here in Flint, We've Seen This Happen
During extreme cold in January 2026, the City of Flint opened community centers as warming centers for residents without adequate heat.
The city used locations including:
Mays Center
1002 W. Home Ave.
McKinley Center
249 Peer Ave.
The City also directed residents to additional Genesee County warming resources and 211. City of Flint
This is a great example of why it's worth knowing where your community's emergency resources are before the emergency happens.
And There Are Places That Provide Warmth Beyond a Temporary Warming Center
Some organizations provide seasonal or emergency shelter during the colder months.
For example, Catholic Charities' Center for Hope in Flint operates a warming center during the winter season, with its current information stating that cold-weather shelter is available 24 hours a day from December 1 through March 31. Catholic Charities Shiawassee Genesee
The Shelter of Flint has also provided winter warming support for women and children during cold-weather months. CFG Foundation
Again, availability, eligibility and hours can change, so always contact the organization or check current information before traveling.
What About the Heating Bill?
This might be one of the biggest winter concerns for Michigan families.
If you're struggling to keep up with heating or electric costs, please don't assume you have to wait until your utilities are shut off before asking for help.
Michigan has several programs that may help eligible households, including:
State Emergency Relief
Michigan Energy Assistance Program
Home Heating Credit
Weatherization Assistance
The State of Michigan says temporary heat and utility assistance may be available for eligible households, while weatherization programs can help eligible households reduce energy use and heating costs. Michigan.gov
Michigan 211 also recommends reaching out as soon as you know you may have trouble paying, rather than waiting until the situation becomes an emergency. Michigan 211
One number to remember:
211
They can help connect Michigan residents with utility assistance and other community resources.
Your Winter “Just in Case” List
If you're a parent or caregiver, here's a little list worth saving.
Before winter:
☐ Check the kids' coats
☐ Check boots
☐ Check hats and gloves
☐ Look for winter clothing programs
☐ Find your local warming centers
☐ Save 211 in your phone
☐ Know where you would go if your heat stopped working
☐ Check whether your family qualifies for heating assistance
☐ Put together a small emergency kit
☐ Keep flashlights and extra batteries available
☐ Have blankets somewhere easy to reach
☐ Keep phones and portable chargers charged during severe weather
☐ Know where you would go if the power stayed out for an extended period
Michigan recommends preparing for at least three days of winter emergency conditions. Michigan.gov
And Moms... Please Don't Forget Yourself
We talk so much about making sure the kids have coats.
The kids have food.
The kids have blankets.
The kids are okay.
But you need a coat, too.
You need warm socks.
You need a safe place to go.
You need support.
You need someone to check on you.
You are part of the family you're trying so hard to keep warm and safe.
You count, too.
What If You Don't Know Where to Start?
That's exactly what Michigan 211 is there for.
Michigan 211 has a database of more than 27,000 programs and can connect Michigan residents with resources involving utilities, housing, food, clothing, transportation and other needs. It is available 24/7 and is free and confidential. Michigan 211
You can:
Dial 211
Call 844-875-9211
Text your ZIP code to 898211
Or search the Michigan 211 resource database online. Michigan 211
KindNest Wants to Know
We're putting together information now because winter is easier when we prepare together.
So tell us:
What is the hardest part of winter for your family?
A. Heating bills
B. Kids' coats and winter clothes
C. Snow and transportation
D. Power outages
E. Holiday expenses
F. Keeping everyone healthy
G. Honestly... ALL OF IT
You can literally just comment A, B, C, D, E, F or G.
And if you know about a Michigan coat drive, warming center, church, fire station, community center, holiday program or other winter resource that families should know about, tell us about it.
Your comment could help another family.
One More Thing
If your family needs practical assistance, KindNest is here to be a starting point.
You can learn more about KindNest and the support available through our website or submit an assistance request if your family needs a care package.
You don't have to have everything figured out before you reach out.
Sometimes the first step is simply saying:
“I need help. Where do I start?”
And that's okay.