From the Monroe News: Support in troubling times

TEMPERANCE, MI – Chris Cremean wants the unemployed to know they are not alone.

The Toledo resident has created a new support group for those who have lost their jobs.

The nondenominational group meets for one hour beginning at 10 a.m. each Wednesday at Resurrection Polish National Catholic Church, 1835 W. Temperance Rd. between Jackman and Douglas Rds.

For Mr. Cremean, job loss is personal. In October, he was let go after 33 years in the home care industry. In December, he launched his own company, Caregiver Resources Group LLC and became a resource specialist offering services to caregivers.

He approached his fellow church members about creating a group targeted at those who have lost their jobs.

“I saw a lack of support groups for those who have lost their jobs,” Mr. Cremean said. “Michigan is hit hardest of all the states because of the auto industry.”

The support group will help participants cope with job loss, network with fellow job seekers and share job leads, information about unemployment and the services available through Michigan Works!, United Way and other resources.

Mr. Cremean is hoping to attract job seekers to the meetings by spreading the word. He encourages people to come because they are not alone.

“There are so many others out there who are going through the same thing,” he said.

The church was looking for a mission, and Mr. Cremean said this was a practical way to reach out to the community.

“This is so big,” he said of the job loss in the area. “It was obvious to us there was a need for this.”

For more information about the support group for the unemployed, call (419) 206-5979.