Dear friends,

Good health begins with good food, but the ability to make healthy choices isn’t just about personal responsibility—it’s about affordability, accessibility, and knowledge. When these barriers stand in the way, the effects ripple beyond the dinner table, impacting physical health, financial stability, and overall well-being. At Community Action House, we believe that everyone deserves access to the nourishing food they need to achieve their full potential.

In Ottawa County, many of our neighbors struggle to access the fresh, healthy food their families need to thrive. 

• Physical health metrics in Ottawa County, including rates of chronic disease, and fruit and vegetable consumption, are worse than in 2021, and worse than both Michigan and national averages.*

• 1 in 7 adults in our community reports not having enough to eat at times.*

• A growing number of residents lack the knowledge to cook meals at home, especially meals that incorporate fresh fruits and vegetables.*

To tackle these challenges, I’m excited to share our Healthcare Partnerships pilot program—a new initiative designed to bridge the gap between healthcare and food insecurity. By making nutritious food more affordable and accessible, and providing nutrition education, we’re empowering our neighbors to take charge of their health and build a brighter future.

*2023 Community Health Needs Assessment

Nourishing Healthcare Partnerships

Last fall, we launched our Healthcare Partnerships pilot program, rooted in the belief that food is medicine. When people struggle to afford healthy food, their risk for conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes goes up—but when they have access to fresh, nutritious meals, their health can improve. Food Is Medicine programs blend food access with healthcare to help prevent and manage diet-related health conditions while making sure families have affordable access to healthy food. 

I’m thrilled to be part of the Food as Medicine Leadership Program through the Food Bank Council of Michigan, a statewide effort to connect food access with healthcare. By teaming up with experts and trying new, innovative approaches, we’re making sure nutritious food is seen as a key part of overall healthcare across communities in Michigan. 

Here’s how our program works: 

• Healthcare providers identify patients facing food insecurity and managing chronic health conditions like diabetes or hypertension.

• Patients receive a one-month, no-cost Food Club membership voucher to access fresh, healthy groceries.

• Patients gain nutrition security—the ability to choose fresh, healthy foods and are introduced to no-cost Healthy@Home programs through our Food Club & Opportunity Hub, equipping them with the knowledge needed to prepare healthy meals at home.

• We track program impact and share data back with healthcare providers to track how access to fresh, nutritious food is improving health outcomes in our community.

I’m excited to share that this program is already seeing results! Since launching in October:

• 15 guests have been referred through the program;

• 50% of those who redeemed their voucher have continued as Food Club members on their own!

Brianna Jones, our partner from the Holland Free Health Clinic (HFHC), shared:

"At HFHC, we have witnessed the impact of food and nutrition insecurity and the health and well-being of patients, particularly those living with diabetes and other chronic conditions.  Our mission is to provide holistic care by addressing the interconnected needs of the mind, body, and spirit. By working hand in hand with Action House’s Food Club, it strengthens our ability to provide this holistic support patients need and improve health outcomes. This type of collaboration is vital for achieving equitable health access and creating sustainable impact in our community.”

This program is just getting started! As it grows, we’re excited to partner with more healthcare providers to nourish, equip, and empower our neighbors. At Action House, food is our love language, and if you’re an individual who’s passionate about healthy food, you can support this work by helping stock our shelves with meal kits so neighbors can enjoy nutritious meals with their family!

Healthy food leads to healthier bodies and minds, and sets the foundation for a stronger future. All of our work is made possible by neighbors like you. Thank you for believing that a healthier tomorrow is possible for all of our neighbors!

Gratefully,

Chara Bouma-Prediger | Director of Food Access Programs