The United Health Foundation has committed $250,000 to provide urgent assistance to Michigan residents experiencing food insecurity as they face unprecedented hardships during the COVID-19 pandemic. The support for Michigan’s COVID-19 Response and Recovery Initiative is part of UnitedHealth Group’s (NYSE: UNH) previously announced initial $50 million commitment to fight COVID-19 and support those most directly impacted, including health care workers, hard-hit communities, seniors and people experiencing homelessness and food insecurity.
“The COVID-19 public health emergency has compounded the many challenges faced by Michigan’s most vulnerable residents, such as those experiencing hunger or food insecurity,” said Dennis Mouras, chief executive officer, UnitedHealthcare Community Plan – Michigan. “Our support for Michigan’s COVID-19 Response and Recovery Initiative will help provide critical aid to the communities that need it most.”
The $250,000 grant to Michigan’s COVID-19 Response and Recovery Initiative will go directly to the Food Bank Council of Michigan, the state’s unified food bank network, to support the purchase of wholesale food for emergency food boxes and distribution to those in need.
“All across the state, we are seeing people stand tall in incredible ways to help those who are struggling during this tough time,” said Michigan Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II. “I am grateful for the United Health Foundation’s generosity, which will have a tremendous and direct impact on the lives of countless Michiganders. As a result, we will be able to meet the increased demand at food pantries and address hunger and food insecurity for Michigan residents.”
UnitedHealth Group, including UnitedHealthcare, Optum and the United Health Foundation, has a long history of addressing food insecurity — a key determinant of health among vulnerable populations in Michigan and across the country. The United Health Foundation recently announced $5 million in national partnerships with the National Health Care for the Homeless Council, the Feeding America network of member food banks, and Meals on Wheels America as part of its commitment to fight COVID-19 and support impacted communities.
About Michigan’s COVID-19 Response and Recovery Initiative
As Michiganders face challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the State of Michigan has launched the COVID-19 Response and Recovery Initiative to accept monetary donations to support critical services. Funds will be distributed through the State Emergency Operations Center established process, based on critical needs. Donations will be allocated to provide food and water, education support for children, and other essential activities as needs are identified. For more information, visit https://www.michigan.gov/coronavirus.
About UnitedHealth Group
UnitedHealth Group (NYSE: UNH) is a diversified health care company dedicated to helping people live healthier lives and helping to make the health system work better for everyone. UnitedHealth Group offers a broad spectrum of products and services through two distinct platforms: UnitedHealthcare, which provides health care coverage and benefits services; and Optum, which provides information and technology-enabled health services. For more information, visit UnitedHealth Group at www.unitedhealthgroup.com or follow @UnitedHealthGrp on Twitter.
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