Macomb City Township reviewed 28 general assistance applications in August, reflecting growing financial strain among residents, township officials said Monday.
At the Macomb City Council meeting, which serves as the township board, Supervisor Angela Markley attributed the increase to rising living expenses. “We’re seeing a lot of high Ameren bills,” Markley said. “Rents have gone up for some people, and some have been laid off.”
Of the August applications, five were denied, and decisions remain pending on 13 others. Markley detailed the applicants’ employment status: five men and two women were deemed employable; eight men and eight women have applied for disability benefits; and three men and two women were medically exempt from work.
The township disbursed $10,962 in aid last month, including $7,814 for shelter costs. So far in September, 20 general assistance applications have been distributed.
