New Partnership Tackles Food Insecurity in North Minneapolis
UnitedHealth Group continued its commitment to rebuilding the health of the Twin Cities and addressing health equity through a new partnership with the Northside Achievement Zone (NAZ). As part of the partnership, UnitedHealth Group will provide a $1 million grant to NAZ to fund the Northside Partners for Food Delivery Program. The program is designed to address food insecurity experienced by North Minneapolis families with a unique partnership among NAZ, NorthPoint Health & Wellness Center, Appetite For Change, The Humanity Alliance, Minnesota Central Kitchen and Second Harvest Heartland.
The funding provided by UnitedHealth Group will double the food support provided by the Northside Partners for Food Delivery program in 2021, supporting more than 300 families this year.
How it Works
Each week, families will receive prepared meals or a delivery of groceries, including fresh produce, dairy products, protein and shelf-stable items like rice, pasta and soup. Appetite For Change, a North Minneapolis organization that is part of the Minnesota Central Kitchen effort, will make the meals and The Humanity Alliance will provide drivers to deliver the food.
“NAZ families told us that the unique circumstances of COVID-19 were preventing them from accessing needed food support. This innovative program addresses the barriers that were causing many of our partner families who were struggling,” said NAZ President and CEO Sondra Samuels. “I want to thank UnitedHealth Group for stepping up to address these critical needs with generous support that will help NAZ double our food support program in 2021 and alleviate this worry for Northside families.”
In addition to the $1 million grant, UnitedHealth Group is providing pro bono consulting to help program partners improve operational efficiency to serve more families in need.
Why it Matters
This partnership is the latest initiative by UnitedHealth Group to help rebuild the Twin Cities, to address health equity in the wake of George Floyd’s tragic death last year, as well as support people amid the pandemic. Following the historic civil unrest, UnitedHealth Group announced commitments in June 2020 to support Mr. Floyd’s family, help Minneapolis-St. Paul businesses rebuild, and fund efforts to advance equity and inclusivity in the Twin Cities community.
“UnitedHealth Group is committed to supporting the needs of the communities in which we live and work, as well as promoting health equity. Our partnership with the Northside Achievement Zone will provide additional help to our neighbors and fellow residents during these challenging times,” said Brett Edelson, CEO, UnitedHealthcare of Minnesota.
If you know someone who would benefit from food support, please contact 2harvest.org/gethelp. If you would like to volunteer to help ensure that people receive the help they need, please contact 2harvest.org/volunteer.
