Consumers Energy Foundation Announces Community Housing Network as Recipient of 2026 People Awards Grant; Organization Receives $150,000

Troy, Mich. Thursday, July 16, 2026

The Consumers Energy Foundation has awarded Oakland County’s Community Housing Network as one of three recipients of the 2026 People Awards. The nonprofit organization will receive $150,000 to support housing assistance.

The grant will allow Community Housing Network to help families prevent long-term housing instability and homelessness, providing families with financial assistance for various housing costs including security deposits and past due rent.  

“As the cost of living continues to rise, families are facing impossible choices that can jeopardize their housing stability,” said Brandon Hofmeister, president of the Consumers Energy Foundation. “By supporting organizations that remove barriers to safe housing, we can help families build brighter and more secure futures.”

“We believe everyone deserves a safe, stable, and affordable place to call home,” said Kirsten Elliott, president and chief executive officer of Community Housing Network. “This investment will help more individuals and families access the housing, resources, and support they need to build stability, strengthen their futures, and thrive.”

The Consumers Energy Foundation invests in Michigan communities through its people, planet and prosperity pillars, supporting efforts that help individuals and families meet basic needs, protect and enhance natural spaces, and strengthen local economies and communities across the state.

The Consumers Energy Foundation  is the charitable arm of Consumers Energy, Michigan’s largest energy provider. The Foundation contributes to the growth and strengthening of Michigan communities by investing in what’s most important — our people, our planet and Michigan’s prosperity. In 2025, the Consumers Energy Foundation, CMS Energy Foundation, Consumers Energy, its employees and retirees contributed more than $17 million in support of Michigan nonprofits and communities. For more information, visit CconsumersEenergy.com/foundation.

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Media Contact: Megan Kirk, 947-957-3982, or megan.d.kirk@cmsenergy.com