Be Healthy Berrien, a collective impact initiative has received a $55,000 award from Corewell Health Lakeland Hospitals to continue efforts in Berrien County to reduce obesity through policy, system, and environmental changes. The initiative is anchored by United Way of Southwest Michigan.
“We have seen successes in our community by reducing barriers to healthy food and promoting active living opportunities, such as implementing Healthy Corner Stores and developing trail systems. This award will certainly help us continue the work effectively and equitably,” states Dawn Marie Smith, Director of Be Healthy Berrien. “Since 2010, Corewell Health Lakeland Hospital’s ongoing partnership has been key in advancing this important endeavor.”
The strategic alliance of the steering committee empowers Be Healthy Berrien to tackle local challenges and achieve common goals more effectively. The committee includes the Berrien County Health Department, Corewell Health South, Equilibrium Fitness, the Southwest Michigan Planning Commission, the YMCA of Greater Michiana and the United Way of Southwest Michigan. The endeavor supports organizations that improve quality of life for residents through the enhancement of healthier and more active lifestyles. Partnerships originate from a commitment to equity and advancing two objectives: Improving Access to affordable, nutritious food; and Promoting opportunities for active living.
“We are excited to be able to offer funding to community organizations, such as the United Way of Southwest Michigan, that closely align with our mission to improve health, instill humanity, and inspire hope. The Be Healthy Berrien collective impact initiative has had an impressive 14-year track record of ensuring access to healthy food options for improved health outcomes. We greatly admire their success and view this funding as an investment in the future of creating even greater access to nutritious food options in our community,” says Soroya Pierre-VanArtsen, Vice President of Philanthropy at Corewell Health Lakeland and President of Corewell Foundation Southwest Michigan.
Be Healthy Berrien furthers its mission by examining community food choices and resource access within built, social, and economic contexts. It utilizes Corewell Health’s Community Needs Assessment (CHNA) to prioritize efforts in historically disadvantaged areas, guided by a health equity approach. By improving food access and creating healthier environments, the aim is to enhance population health outcomes, as active communities that promote daily physical activity become healthier and more vibrant places to live.