family support programs
Families come in all shapes and sizes, and sometimes just need a little extra help to meet needs. FROM Family Support programs are here when you need them. Whether you need a little help with school supplies, medical equipment loan, Christmas presents, or a variety of other things, we're here.
Our Backpack Program takes place each August, just in time for a fresh start to the new school year! Come with your kids to pick out a backpack and receive school supplies tailored to your students’ grade and school, at no cost to your family. Registration is required. Sign-ups begin in June 2027.
Christmas Toy Store is a free event for parents/guardians to shop for Christmas gifts for their children, newborn-18. The Christmas Food Basket is offered with this program and provides a Christmas dinner with all the fixings for families to cook at home. Registration is required. Sign-ups begin in October.
Medical equipment can be a large and unexpected expense for many people, especially if insurance doesn’t cover the items needed. At Medical Equipment Loan Closet, you can pick up medical equipment and borrow it for as long as you need.
The Medical Equipment Loan Closet is open weekly, Monday–Thursday, 10AM – 4PM.
Income Tax Assistance
Partnered with United Way and the IRS, the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program is an easy way to have your taxes e-filed for free by IRS-trained volunteers at FROM's Main Office
Kent County residents who meet the income guidelines can schedule an appointment to have their taxes e-filed by calling 2-1-1.
Appointments will open late January/early February 2027.
Need a ride in the Lowell area?
FROM offers a friendly transportation service!
You can get a ride Monday through Thursday, between 10 AM and 4 PM. Transportation to and from our pantry is available: Tuesday (2-4PM), Wednesday (5-7PM) and Friday (10AM-Noon).
Just remember to book your ride a week in advance so we can schedule our volunteer drivers!
Repair & Restore program provides free/low cost home repairs and weatherization assistance for homeowners in the Greater Lowell community. If you have a home repair need, give our Connections Office a call at 616-897-8260 ext. 120.
eligibility:
Backpack Distribution:
To qualify for Backpack Distribution, you must have children who attend Lowell Area Schools and live in your home and make 300% or less of the Federal Poverty Level.
Christmas Distribution:
To qualify for Christmas Distribution, you must live in our Service area, have children ages 0-18 who live in your home and/or have a need for a holiday meal, and make 300% or less of the Federal Poverty Level.
Income Tax Assistance: We host the VITA Program through Heart of West Michigan United Way .
Sign up is available to residents of Kent County with an annual income of $70,000 or less. Learn more at www.hwmuw.org/taxhelp
Medical Equipment Loan:
Open to anyone who needs it.
Transportation:
To qualify for Transportation, you must live in our Service area, and make 300% or less of the Federal Poverty Level.
Repair & Restore: To qualify for Repair & Restore you must live in our Service area and make 300% or less of the Federal Poverty Level.
