The 2012 Art Van Million Dollar Charity Challenge is dedicated in honor of Eleanor M. Josaitis, co-founder of Focus: HOPE.

With a fierce passion for helping others, Eleanor Josaitis impacted the lives of thousands of Detroiters in need. Keeping that spirit alive and honoring her remarkable work, Art Van Furniture is partnering with Focus: HOPE in the 2012 Launch of Art Van Charity Challenge. READ MORE ABOUT ELEANOR M. JOSAITIS AND HER WORK WITH FOCUS: HOPE >

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Macomb County Rotating Emergency Shelter Team

In 1988, twelve Macomb County congregations came together to provide meals and lodging to the homeless during the coldest months. MCREST currently collaborates with over 100 congregation providing shelter to men, women, and children for 365 days a year. Each congregation provides 7 nights of shelter, 3 meals a days, and transportation for guests to attend school, apply for jobs, or other appointments.  The congregations have over 14,000 volunteers and with the help of hundreds of family owned restaurants and business the MCREST mission and vision is supported. MCREST provides case management to each client such as job readiness, resume writing, budgeting, with facilitating medical, dental and housing assistance so each client can be successful within the community. In the last 6 months we have seen a 70% increase of families entering the shelter due to the economic downfall. Starting October 1, 2011, we expect an increase of families due to the impending cuts in cash assistance. Over 12,000 families will lose their income that helped pay their rent and utilities. MCREST and the thousands of volunteers will continue to be dedicated to challenge the standard of care for all individuals that are homeless. Please visit our website for more information>