Supporting health beyond the clinic: Michigan mobile market addresses food insecurity

Nutritious food is a necessary foundation for good health, yet 1 in 6 Michiganders face hunger.¹ To address this challenge, UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Michigan has invested $305K in Community Action House to launch a new mobile grocery initiative.

Community Action House investment and mobile unit grand opening

Community Action House is a nonprofit organization which provides community programs targeting food insecurity. Its mission is to “Provide area families and individuals with food, clothing, shelter and the opportunity to build necessary skills to achieve a stable and prosperous life.”² The funding supports the creation of the Food Club “Fresh Express” Mobile Market, which will bring fresh produce and cooking demonstrations directly to residents in rural communities.

With the new mobile unit, the organization can now deliver a high-quality food experience directly into neighborhoods where traditional grocery stores and food pantries may be inaccessible. The vehicle, outfitted for mobile grocery service and community engagement, was officially unveiled at a grand opening event, signaling the start of this innovative and necessary program.

“We are honored to support the launch of the Food Club Mobile Market to help increase access to critical resources in the community,” said Dr. Patricia De Loof, Chief Medical Officer of UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Michigan. “By ensuring individuals and families have access to nutritious food, we’re enabling them to live healthier lives.”

A whole-person health approach

This initiative reflects UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Michigan’s broader commitment to supporting rural Michigan. By working with trusted, community-based organizations like Community Action House, UnitedHealthcare is helping to create a sustainable, local solution that meets people where they are. The Fresh Express Mobile Market will not only improve access to groceries but will also promote nutritional literacy through on-site cooking demonstrations and educational resources, helping families make healthier choices over the long term.

Food insecurity remains disproportionately high among Medicaid-eligible individuals and families, especially in rural areas. The Fresh Express Mobile Market provides a replicable model for addressing this challenge. By investing in mobile grocery services and health-focused education, UnitedHealthcare is demonstrating how health plans can go beyond clinical care to support real-world solutions within designated communities.

The launch of the Fresh Express Mobile Market is an example of how community relationships and targeted investments can create lasting change as more families gain access to the food and knowledge they need to live healthier lives.

To learn more about how we’re addressing health challenges in Michigan, explore our article and video about collaborating with local providers.

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