A Struggling Michigan Economy

Whether a Michigander, a Michiganian or simply a resident of the Great Lake State of Michigan, the people in Michigan are taking heavy blows to their monthly budgets. Home foreclosures, bankruptcies, local food banks, car repossessions and unemployment are the focus of many people's minds today. If you add in the rising cost of food, goods and gasoline over $4 per gallon, the people of Michigan are being hit hard.

Statistically, it is showing Michigan's unemployment rate to be the highest in the nation. In June of this year, a record high 8.5% unemployment rate was noted according to Michigan's Unemployment office. The national average was at 5.5% during that same time period. On average, an administrative assistant position in the Mid Michigan area, is pulling in 300+ applications when advertised. That's a lot of competition in the job market. The employment section in local newspapers is sparse due to many companies downsizing and making due with the staff they already have in place.

The people that are seeking employment have a tough choice if they find employment further away from home, as well. With gasoline prices anywhere from $4.15 to $4.35 on any given day, the cost to commute can be a severe strain on any person's budget. The park and ride lots are being filled to capacity and bursting at the seams as more folks try sharing rides as a cost saving measaure. The Michigan Department of Transportation is reporting high volume at the ride share locations and are considering expanding those lots to accomodate more vehicles. Ridership is also up with public transportation in the larger cities in Mid Michigan and as ridership grows, the public transportation organizations are considering higher fares simply to cover their fuel costs, as well.

The housing market is devastated in the Capital City area of Lansing, Michigan. Plummeting home values are continuing most Michigan communities. An 24% increase in foreclosures has occurred in the Lansing and surrounding areas over the last year, with approximately 2,700 homes in the three counties, surrounding the State's Capital, in the past six months, according to reports from Realty Trac Incorporated. These numbers set Michigan fifth in the nation in foreclosures.

Local food banks, in the past year, have reported staggering numbers of families seeking food assistance due to unemployment and other economic woes. The demand well outweighs the supply and several food banks are unable support that need. A decrease in donations and increase in need is prevalent with no end in sight. One organization, Angel Food Ministries, is still operating nationwide, to help people in need of food assistance. This is a non profit national group, supported by local churches, that supplies foods for a minimal cost on a monthly basis. They have a great menu selection and anyone in need, regardless of income, is welcome. Angel Food Ministries feeds over 500,000 families a month in 35 different states. You can access more information at www.angelfoodministries.com to find a local host site near you.

Many families are making the difficult choice to leave the state in hopes of a better future, economically. The Great Lakes State is one of the most beautiful areas in the United States, in my opinion. I am a life long resident and don't plan on leaving any time soon. With the crisp clean waters of Lake Michigan, Superior, Huron, Ontario and Erie, the sand dunes, the upper peninsula with wildlife galore, towering pine trees, large inland lakes full of fishing opportunities and glorious vacation destinations, pristine golf courses, how could one leave? The state shaped as a mitten will survive this recession or depression or whatever we choose to call it. We will overcome our difficulties, re-establish ourselves and once again, enjoy the beautiful state of Michigan as is so greatly deserves. Come visit us when you can. You will fall in love with our beautiful state.