A Holland-based nonprofit, Community Action House, has been addressing food insecurity in the region for five decades. With a focus on providing affordable, healthy options through its membership-based Food Club and Opportunity Hub, the organization served 11,000 individuals last year. Now, it is launching a mobile market to bring these services directly to underserved neighborhoods in Ottawa and Allegan counties. This initiative aims to overcome transportation barriers and increase access to fresh produce for residents struggling with food insecurity.

Food insecurity remains a pressing issue across Michigan, with 14% of residents facing challenges in accessing sufficient food. In Ottawa County, the problem is even more pronounced, as local residents consume fewer fruits and vegetables compared to the state average. Through its new mobile market, funded by a $300,000 grant from United Healthcare, Community Action House hopes to bridge this gap by delivering nutritious options directly to communities in need.

Revolutionizing Food Distribution with Membership Benefits

The Food Club at Community Action House operates on a unique membership model designed to incentivize healthier eating habits. Eligibility is based on income levels, and members earn points according to their household size. These points can then be used to acquire healthy items at significantly reduced prices. By prioritizing affordable access to fresh produce sourced from local farmers, the program ensures year-round availability of nutritious options that might otherwise be prohibitively expensive.

This innovative approach not only addresses financial constraints but also fosters a sense of community among participants. Members are encouraged to engage with staff and volunteers, creating a supportive environment where individuals feel valued and understood. For instance, Anita Chavarria, who transitioned from volunteering to working full-time with the organization, emphasizes the emotional impact of helping those in need. She highlights how the Food Club transforms what could be an isolating experience into one of connection and empowerment, making guests feel like part of the "Community Action Family."

Extending Reach with the Mobile Market Initiative

To further enhance accessibility, Community Action House has introduced the Food Club Mobile Market. This service aims to reach areas where transportation difficulties prevent people from visiting traditional locations. The mobile market will travel to various sites such as apartment complexes, libraries, churches, and mobile home communities, ensuring that everyone has equal opportunity to access healthy foods. This expansion reflects the organization’s commitment to overcoming systemic barriers and improving quality of life for all residents.

Chara Boum-Prediger, Director of Food Access Programs, explains the significance of this initiative. By meeting people in their own neighborhoods, the mobile market removes a major obstacle—transportation—that often prevents families from obtaining essential nutrition. Furthermore, the project underscores the importance of collaboration with community partners who help identify key locations for outreach. Both staff and volunteers express excitement about the potential impact of the mobile market, particularly its ability to uplift vulnerable populations. As Chavarria notes, seeing the joy and relief on guests’ faces reaffirms the mission of serving others during uncertain times. To sustain these efforts, Community Action House invites community support through donations or volunteer work, emphasizing that every contribution plays a vital role in maintaining high-quality services amidst rising operational costs.