Michaels CARES : A Lifeline for Team Members Facing Hardships

Michaels CARES is an independent, nonprofit initiative dedicated to providing timely financial relief to Michaels team members experiencing unexpected crises. From illnesses to natural disasters, this program embodies Michaels’ commitment to its employees.

Who Can Apply?

All Michaels team members including part-time, temporary, and seasonal employees are eligible after 30 days of service. However, staff employed through third-party contractors are currently not eligible.

Qualifying Emergencies

Michaels worksmart CARES supports a range of urgent scenarios:

  • Life-threatening illness or injury of a team member or close family

  • Death of a team member or close family member

  • Severe damage to or destruction of a primary residence

  • Eviction, foreclosure, or becoming unhoused

  • Forced evacuation due to natural disasters or government mandates

  • Transportation setbacks due to accidents or vehicle theft

What’s Excluded?

While broad in support, the program excludes:

  • Damage to non-primary homes

  • Vehicle repairs or insurance costs

  • Situations where life insurance exceeds $20,000

  • Family disputes such as divorce or child support issues (unless accompanied by official documentation, e.g., a police report)

Grant Amounts & Limits

Michaels CARES offers grants up to certain limits, depending on the nature of the emergency:

  • Home damage: Up to $2,500 for essentials like temporary housing, food, utilities, and repairs

  • Death-related expenses: Up to $3,000 for funeral, travel, and outstanding bills; up to $1,000 for sibling funeral participation

  • Illness or injury: Up to $3,000 for medical costs, overdue utilities, and travel

  • Foreclosure/Eviction: Up to $500–$1,000 based on circumstance

  • Evacuation: Up to $500 for immediate needs like shelter and transport

  • COVID-related quarantine support: Up to $500 for those requiring unpaid quarantine due to exposure (non-job-related)

Additionally, there’s a lifetime grant cap of $10,000 per team member, with restrictions like “one grant per address per year” for eviction/foreclosure, and only one unhoused grant per team member.

Application Steps

  1. Complete the Application
    Fill out the form either yourself or with a sponsor.

  2. Gather Documentation
    Provide supporting evidence (e.g., death certificates, medical bills, eviction notices).

  3. Submit Your Request via:

    • Email: MichaelsCares@michaels.com

    • Fax: 972‑409‑5895

    • Mail: Michaels CARES, Attn: Michaels Cares Coordinator, 3939 W John Carpenter Freeway, Irving, TX 75063

  4. Keep Copies for your records. Sponsorship and complete, accurate documentation are essential.