Full Press Release Details
HOLLAND, Mich.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Molina Healthcare of Michigan(“Molina”), in collaboration withThe MolinaCares Accord(“MolinaCares”), announced three grants to local nonprofits to address food insecurity through food distribution programs, produce prescription initiatives, nutrition education, and cooking classes. The donations, totaling $85,000, have been awarded toCommunity Action House,Kids’ Food Basket, and Momentum Center.
The grants aim to reduce rising hunger in West Michigan. Over1.5 million Michigandersare considered food insecure. Over41,000 thousandof those are children under 17 years of age living in Ottawa, Allegan, Muskegon and Kent counties.
The funds will be used for the following programs:
Community Action House’sFood Club and Opportunity Hub is an innovative food access model serving households across Ottawa and Allegan counties. Alongside direct healthy food access, Action House specializes in nutrition education and in developing partnerships with healthcare providers to leverage Food is Medicine interventions and help neighbors improve their health.
"We’re grateful for Molina’s meaningful investment in our work and their commitment to positively impacting the communities they serve,” said Chara Bouma-Prediger, director of food access programs, Community Action House. “Their partnership and financial support will provide vital health-related food and nutrition services in our community, particularly for neighbors managing chronic conditions and struggling to afford nutritious food."
Kids’ Food Basketis advancing healthcare-aligned solutions such as Healthy Food Packs and produce prescriptions—providing medically appropriate foods, nutrition education, and direct support to individuals experiencing food insecurity and nutrition-related health risks.
“Molina’s gift strengthens our food access programs, which deliver nutritious meals to thousands of West Michigan children each day, while also advancing our commitment to nutrition education and sustainably sourced food,” said Bridget Clark Whitney, president and founding CEO, Kids’ Food Basket. “By supporting partnerships with local farms and hands-on learning around healthy eating and agriculture, Molina is ensuring children and families have both the food and the knowledge they need to thrive.”
Momentum Centerwill addressmental health concerns and social isolation through a monthly town hall series and Friendship Bench program, along with cooking classes focused on affordable and healthy dietary options that can be prepared at home. Momentum Center also offers free dinner and movie nights and operates a 24/7 food pantry.
“In serving people with mental illness, addiction, and disabilities, we recognized an opportunity to build community through something as simple and powerful as a shared meal,” said Barbara Lee, founder, Momentum Center. “Food insecurity has a direct impact on mental well-being, and we are deeply grateful to Molina for helping us provide consistent, meaningful support to those who need it most.”
“These three partners and their programming demonstrate a multi-pronged solution to a multi-faceted issue, which is why Molina is investing in these proven strategies,” said Terrisca Des Jardins, plan president, Molina Healthcare of Michigan. “This aligns with our holistic approach to improving the health and well-being of the communities we serve.”
About Molina Healthcare of Michigan
Molina Healthcare of Michigan, Inc. provides government-funded, quality health care, serving members through Medicaid, Medicare, and Marketplace programs in Michigan. Through its locally operated health plans, Molina Healthcare, Inc., a Fortune 500 company, provides managed health care services under the Medicaid and Medicare programs, and through state insurance marketplaces. For more information about Molina Healthcare of Michigan, visitMolinaHealthcare.com.
About The MolinaCares Accord
Established by Molina Healthcare, Inc., The MolinaCares Accord oversees a community investment platform created to improve the health and well-being of disadvantaged populations by funding meaningful, measurable, and innovative programs and solutions that improve health, life, and living in local communities.