On this episode of the Detroit Evening Report, we cover a new grant program in Dearborn to help homeowners fund front porch and step repairs; the groundbreaking of Cathedral of the Most Blessed Sacrament’s new Holy Paws Dog Park and more.

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Dearborn offering free front porch repairs

The city of Dearborn is offering free front porch and step replacement to some residents. The program is funded by federal grants through the end of October. To be eligible, the property must be an owner-occupied, single-family home with a valid certificate of occupancy. Applicants must have lived in the home for at least one year. If you do not have a valid certificate of occupancy, you must have lived in the home for at least five years. Applicants must also be up to date on property taxes, utilities, water bills and insurance. For more information, visit Dearborn.gov. 

Public meeting on prescription costs under Michigan Medicaid plans

Michigan residents are invited to take part in a virtual meeting about prescription drugs covered under Michigan’s Medicaid health plans. The meeting will be hosted by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) with the purpose of allowing the public, stakeholders and other interested parties to comment on the list of prescriptions and associated costs. The meeting will take place from 9:30 a.m.-noon on Monday, Oct. 14, via Zoom.  Those unable to attend can submit questions via email to MDHHSCommonFormulary@michigan.gov by Oct. 9, 2024.

State dedicates funds to address teacher shortage

More than 160 school districts in Michigan are receiving $175 million dollars in grants to help address the teacher shortage. The money comes from the Michigan Department of Education and will go toward the state’s Grow Your Own Initiative. The initiative helps increase the number of certified teachers in areas of shortage. Each district receiving an award is partnering with one or more state approved preparation providers such as colleges. Detroit Community Schools, Dearborn City School District and Eastpointe City Schools are among the local districts receiving funds.

Create crocheted creatures at Parker Avenue Knits

Parker Avenue Knits is hosting an Amigurumi Workshop this month. Amigurumi is the Japanese art of creating small knitted or crocheted creatures. The workshop will be held over two days: Oct. 12 and 26. The shop says beginners are welcome. The cost is $30. For more information visit parkeravenueknits.com.

Holy Paws Dog Park breaks ground

The Cathedral of the Most Blessed Sacrament has broken ground on their new Holy Paws Dog Park. The park is a collaboration between the church, the City of Detroit Beautification program, and neighbors. The church is hosting a pet blessing at 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 6 at the park, located on the corner of John R and Belmont. Blessings and other treats will be passed out as well as St. Francis Holy Cards and a gift card drawing. 

Do you have a community story we should tell? Let us know in an email at detroiteveningreport@wdet.org.