Community spotlights: November 2025 

We’re highlighting stories that reflect the power people hold to create meaningful change together. Across neighborhoods and regions, WKKF grantees and partners are designing and driving solutions that expand opportunity for every child, family and community.  

Mexico 

• Melel Xojobal released a report — covered by Uno TV — that documents 79 child deaths from negligence and violence in Chiapas, Mexico, underscoring weak state protections for children and youth. 

Michigan 

• The Michigan League for Public Policy spotlights innovative efforts to strengthen Michigan’s early childhood workforce, while initiatives like MI Tri-Share Child Care Program expand access statewide.  

• A new child care center opening in Battle Creek in 2026 aims to support families and strengthen the local workforce.  

• Community celebrated the opening of the renovated Battle Creek Innovation Hub. It will advance education, entrepreneurship and equitable economic growth across Southwest Michigan. 

• The Fair Food Network expanded its Double Up Food Bucks program, lifting spending limits and adding Bonus Bucks to help Michigan families access fresh produce during the temporary SNAP benefits pause. 

• Grand Valley State University partnered with Michigan Central to launch youth and adult education programs. This expands Detroiters’ access to college pathways, workforce training and short-term credentialing for emerging tech careers. 

Mississippi  

• Jackson Mayor John Horhn launched “Jackson Rising,” a citywide plan aligning public and private partners to invest in infrastructure, economic growth and neighborhood revitalization. 

Haiti 

• Hurricane Melissa brought rain and landslides to Haiti, killing 43 and displacing thousands. Hope for Haiti mobilized to provide direct support for affected communities.  

New Mexico 

• New Mexico is now the first state in the U.S. to offer free, universal child care regardless of family income. 

• Encuentro has partnered with New Mexico’s largest credit union to expand its microlending program for entrepreneurs who may not qualify for traditional financing. 

New Orleans 

• Lede New Orleans introduced five new Community Reporting Fellows who will examine how rising housing costs are transforming neighborhoods and inspiring creative, community-driven responses. 

• The Louisiana Policy Institute for Children released a report highlighting home-based childcare providers as underused resources, urging expanded financial support, training and inclusion in policy decisions. 

U.S. National  

• The Tending podcast tells the stories of Black farmers who won a landmark civil rights case against the U. S. Department Agriculture, yet still face farm loss, debt and discrimination. 

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