[DONATE] In this episode of The Collective US, hosts Erica Austin and Ryan Buck explore food insecurity in Northwest Michigan with guests from the Northwest Food Coalition and Meals on Wheels. Rachael Cougler explains how the coalition—made up of over 70 grassroots organizations—partners with groups like Groundwork Center and Food Rescue to deliver fresh, local food to those in need. Mary Clulo shares her journey from volunteer to coalition chair, emphasizing the importance of nutrition and the complexity of organizing food systems across six counties. Lisa Robitshek of Meals on Wheels highlights how their service not only provides meals to homebound seniors but also offers vital wellness checks and emotional support.

The episode underscores how economic challenges like inflation, housing shortages, and lack of childcare intensify food insecurity, and how community volunteers and donors play a crucial role in filling the gap. Listeners are encouraged to support upcoming fundraisers—Moomers for Meals on April 27 and the Empty Bowls event on May 4—to help sustain these essential services. For more information or to get involved, visit nmcaa.net or northwestmifoodcoalition.org.