Volunteers shown in this file photo load milk into a local food pantry at the Macomb Community Action Macomb Food Program warehouse. In partnership with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan (BCBSM), the BCBSM Foundation, and the Michigan Dairy Federation, grants are being made available to pantries in need of refrigeration units.Gina Joseph – Macomb Daily
Food pantries looking to increase their ability to provide dairy products such as cheese, yogurt and eggs, as well as nutritious fresh foods such as poultry and fish, are encouraged to apply for refrigeration equipment grants.
This is the third consecutive year that the Dairy Federation of Michigan (UDIM) has partnered with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan (BCBSM), BCBSM Complete and the BCBSM Foundation to provide support through the Food Pantry Grant Program.
“Food pantries across Michigan provide individuals and families with nutritious food that is key to improving and maintaining good health,” said Ken Heyward, vice president and special assistant to the president for community relations at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. “We play the role of a bridge to provide food.” , in a news release. “We value their work and are happy to provide them with the tools and resources they need to improve their ability to serve those in need.”
Since the program’s inception, 147 organizations in 47 counties have received support.
To improve access to healthy foods such as milk, cheese, fruits, vegetables and yogurt, food pantries are again being invited to apply to receive refrigeration units. Refrigeration units can be worth up to $7,000. Grantees will also receive $250 in dairy match funds to purchase additional eligible dairy products for members of their community.
According to data from Feeding America, 1 in 9 Michiganders will face hunger in 2021, and 15% of the population in 25 Michigan counties will experience hunger or food insecurity. The number of food insecure children in Michigan is even higher, with 1 in 8 children facing hunger and 12 counties where more than 20% of children are food insecure.
“Michigan’s dairy farmers are dedicated to their work, driven by a passion to ensure everyone can enjoy the benefits of dairy products,” United Dairy of Michigan -Amie Vondrasek, Senior Manager of Health and Wellness at Industry. “Partnering with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan in this effort is an important step in reducing hunger and food insecurity in Michigan. Food pantry grants allow food pantries to provide nutritious dairy products, vegetables, and more. , making it easier to provide other healthy options to those who need them.”
Todd Anderson agreed.
“Food insecurity in Michigan demands our attention. Blue Cross Complete is committed to supporting organizations that address health-related social needs such as high-quality, fresh food. “We’re excited to help local pantries provide nutritious food and dairy products to Michigan families facing nutritional deficiencies,” said Anderson, Market President, BCBSM Complete.
“The right to enough food is a fundamental human right, and we are proud to help expand access to the fresh, healthy options Michigan residents need,” said BCBSM Foundation Executive Director Audrey Harvey, Chief Executive Officer, added: “By combining the resources and strengths of our partners in this program, we hope to make significant progress in addressing food insecurity across the state.”
The deadline to apply for the grant is June 21, 2024. Those interested in applying for a grant must complete an online application.
For more information or to apply, visit the Food Pantry Grant Program at milkmeansmore.org/food-pantry-grant-program/.
