Faith in Action: Western Washtenaw’s Largest Social Service Provider

Faith in Action, better known as FIA, is a cornerstone of the Washtenaw community, committed to providing timely support to families in need. As the largest social service provider in western Washtenaw County, FIA serves over 300 families annually through essential programs and services.

FIA’s main office is located on the grounds of Chelsea Hospital, with a second location in Dexter, MI. These strategically placed sites ensure accessibility for clients, including those from Grass Lake and Scio Farms Manufactured Home Community, just outside of Dexter.

Rising Costs of Living

Sarah Shugart, FIA’s executive director, brings a deep understanding of the county’s needs, having been raised in Washtenaw County. She has witnessed firsthand the rising costs of living, using the price of spaghetti sauce as a personal benchmark for inflation.

“Spaghetti sauce has been my marker for grocery costs, and I have watched it go up and up and up,” Sarah notes. “It costs twice as much as it did six years ago and that reflects a significant increase in the dollars we all have to spend to buy the same food.”

Sarah points out the stark reality for FIA’s clients, many of whom work jobs that don’t pay enough to cover basic expenses. The rising cost of food exacerbates their struggles.

“Many of us experience these changes as employed people with average incomes, so imagine what that feels like for the people we serve,” she says. “Most of our clients are working jobs that don’t pay enough to make ends meet, and now, the food prices are so expensive.”

FIA addresses food insecurity through a client-choice food pantry, allowing clients to select groceries once a week. In partnership with Food Gatherers, FIA provides food for over 100 households each month.

“It really helps,” Sarah says. “A family of three comes in and gets $100 worth of groceries, and every time they do, it puts money in their pockets.”

Volunteer Powered

The organization relies heavily on its 65 active volunteers to operate the pantry and manage the clothing room. Volunteers work diligently to create a welcoming thrift store atmosphere, ensuring that clothing is organized and accessible.

“We wouldn’t survive without our volunteers,” Sarah emphasizes. “They basically run the business; they are our backbone and the boots on the ground with day-to-day service.”

FIA’s volunteer base includes many seniors and retirees, with the oldest volunteer being 94 years old. These dedicated individuals often work weekly shifts and form lasting relationships with the community.

“Most of our volunteers are seniors or retired,” Sarah shares, noting the strong sense of camaraderie and commitment among them. “We have a Facebook page just for volunteers, we do an appreciation dinner every year, and we just enjoyed our summer picnic.”

Flexible Housing Support

The need for affordable housing is another critical issue that FIA addresses. The organization supports 41 housing units through a partnership with Avalon Housing. Sarah explains that the rising cost of housing has displaced many long-time residents.

“There’s a lack of housing that is further complicated by a lack of affordable housing,” Sarah says. “We see families that have had long and meaningful histories in what used to be small farming communities become priced out of the market.”

In 2024, FIA received a grant from the United Way of Southeastern Michigan to bolster their food and housing programs. This grant has enabled FIA to provide more flexible and comprehensive support.

“We really appreciate United Way providing a grant to support what we see as most important in our community,” Sarah says. “The unrestricted dollars give us flexibility to help in deeper ways.”

An example of the grant’s impact is the assistance provided to a Washtenaw family facing eviction. With the grant, FIA covered $4,500 in back rent, allowing the family to return to their home.

“We have to do this because once you lose housing altogether, it is so much harder to get back and it can feel impossible,” Sarah notes. “With the grant, we were able to spend and spread out more to support the needs of the community.”

Through its dedicated staff, compassionate volunteers, and crucial community support, FIA continues to be a vital resource for families in western Washtenaw County, making a significant difference in the lives of those they serve.