Daily Mining Gazette file photo The food pantry operated by Little Brothers Friends of the Elderly in Hancock is seen in this undated Gazette file photo.

DETROIT – A grant opportunity is now open for Michigan food pantries aiming to expand their infrastructure to combat food and nutrition insecurity. United Dairy Industry of Michigan (UDIM), in partnership with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, Blue Cross Complete of Michigan and Superior Health Foundation, is accepting applications for the fifth year to help local food pantries offer more nutrient-rich, fresh foods. Since its launch the program has benefitted 220 food pantries across 54 counties, serving 93,000 people each month.

Food pantries can apply for a refrigeration unit worth up to $7,000 to improve access to healthy foods like dairy, fruits and vegetables. Recipients will also receive technical support to improve pantry operations and nutrition education such as healthy eating guidance, recipes and meal planning to share with their community.

“Food pantries are not just about providing food; they are essential for building stronger, more resilient communities,” said Tiffany Albert, senior vice president of Community Relations and chief inclusion officer at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. “As food insecurity remains a pressing issue, the importance of food pantries cannot be overstated as they address immediate hunger, reduce food waste and provide nutrition education. When Michiganians have better access to nutritious foods, our communities are healthier and health care becomes more affordable for everyone.”

Food insecurity remains a critical and growing challenge across Michigan, where more than 1.5 million residents, approximately one in six, lack consistent access to enough nutritious food. The problem hits children especially hard, with more than 400,000 Michigan kids facing hunger, according to Feeding America. As demand for food assistance continues to rise and has increased 18 percent in the past year in Michigan, local food pantries are under increasing pressure to meet rising community needs.

“Access to fresh, nutrient-rich dairy foods is essential for building healthier communities across Michigan,” said Amiee Vondrasek, Health & Wellness senior manager, United Dairy Industry of Michigan. “By supporting food pantries with the tools they need to store and distribute fresh milk and other dairy products, we’re helping ensure more people have access to the nutrition they need to grow, learn and thrive.”

“Food pantries play a vital role in addressing food insecurity in our communities. Access to fresh, healthy food is essential to the well-being of people throughout Michigan, especially children. When basic needs are met, communities can thrive. We’re proud to be part of this grant program to support the vitality of communities across the state,” said Todd Anderson, president, Blue Cross Complete.

“In the Upper Peninsula, food insecurity and geographic isolation create compounding barriers to good health. This program puts the infrastructure in place so pantries can offer fresh, nutritious food that makes a real difference in people’s lives. Superior Health Foundation is proud to be a partner in this work and support the communities we serve together” said Megan Murphy, chief executive officer, Superior Health Foundation.

Grant applications are due June 22, 2026. Visit https://milkmeansmore.org/dairy-in-the-community/food-pantry-grant-program/ to access the online application, eligibility information and complete grant requirements.

Superior Health Foundation proactively supports organizations and initiatives across the Upper Peninsula to improve health and well-being. For more information, visit superiorhealthfoundation.org.