Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, along with the United Dairy Industry of Michigan, is putting $273,000 into local food pantries throughout the state. This funding will help 41 food pantries across 22 counties, making a real difference for over 29,000 Michigan residents who rely on them each month.
These grants include important resources for the food pantries, such as:
- A refrigeration unit worth up to $7,000
- Technical assistance to enhance pantry operations
- Nutrition education support
- $250 for buying dairy products
Some of the food pantries in Mid-Michigan receiving aid are:
- All Nations Food Pantry, Lansing
- Cristo Rey Food Pantry, Lansing
- The Fledge Food Pantry, Lansing
- Harriet’s Hub, Jackson
- Helping Hands Food Pantry, Charlotte
- St. Joseph Food Pantry, Howell
- Stockbridge Community Outreach, Stockbridge
Amiee Vondrasek, senior manager of Health and Wellness at the United Dairy Industry of Michigan, emphasized the importance of this initiative. She noted, “This grant program is crucial in tackling nutrition insecurity across Michigan. It helps increase access to healthy foods like milk and dairy products.”
Supporting local food pantries not only helps those in need but also fosters community spirit. As the COVID-19 pandemic showed us, food insecurity affects many families. According to a recent study by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, nearly 10.5% of households in Michigan faced food insecurity in the past year—a stark reminder of why these initiatives are vital.
These efforts continue to highlight the importance of nutritious food access as a fundamental part of health and community well-being. Initiatives like this can lead to healthier communities and a reduction in diet-related diseases, which is beneficial for everyone.
For more about nutrition resources in Michigan, visit the United Dairy Industry of Michigan.
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