Aetna Awards $250K in Social Determinants of Health Grants in MI

Aetna’s Medicaid plan in Michigan has granted $250,000 to 10 community-based organizations, aiming to address social determinants of health (SDOH) needs and advance health equity throughout the state.

“Since having low income is often linked with poor health and life expectancy, those experiencing poverty often need to choose between medicine or keeping a roof over their head,” said Teressa Smith, CEO of Aetna Better Health of Michigan. “By investing in local providers and community organizations, we’re supporting the State in its mission to improve the health and wellbeing of Michiganders who live and work in under-resourced communities.”

According to a report by the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity and the Michigan Association of United Ways, 1.4 million residents of Michigan live below the poverty line. Additionally, nearly 38 percent of households in the state face challenges meeting basic needs, including food, housing, childcare, technology, healthcare, and transportation.

In response, Aetna Better Health of Michigan will allocate $25,000 to each of the community partners that have dedicated their efforts towards one of four categories related to SDOH: workforce development, housing stability, food security, and care quality improvements.

Under the umbrella of workforce development, Aetna's funding will go towards the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Southwest Michigan and Goodwill Industries of Greater Detroit to provide targeted resources and opportunities that encourage career development and job retention. In addition, Goodwill Industries of Greater Detroit’s SURGE Center will get assistance to provide entry-level employees with support, resources, and solutions to tackle life issues that could affect their job retention.

Two groups have received funding with the aim of assisting individuals experiencing housing insecurity. The Community Action Agency of South Central Michigan’s Rental & Utility Assistance program will use the funding to help qualified, low-income residents prevent eviction and homelessness by offering rental assistance, eviction prevention, and support for the first month’s rent/deposit and utility assistance

In the food security category, which highlights the importance of nutrition in maintaining good health, three organizations are being supported. Kalamazoo Loaves & Fishes, Inc.'s Grocery Pantry Program will use the funding to offer a twice-monthly supply of nutritious food for individuals and families in need.

Matrix Human Services’ Food for Health Program and Senior Healthy Living Initiative will also receive support for Food Rx packages, nutritional literacy, health screenings, and benefit assistance programs.

Additionally, South Michigan Food Bank's Fresh Food and Pantry Staple Distributions Program will use the funds to support the purchase, packaging, and distribution of fresh and non-perishable foods.

Lastly, for health improvements and social care needs, aimed at reducing barriers to care for improved quality of life, three initiatives are receiving funds. The Wayne Children’s Healthcare Access Program, Inc. will use the donation to support staff in reaching out to high-risk patients, increasing immunization rates, and screening for health and social issues. Additionally, Project E2CHW by MiCHWA, aims to use the funding to provide educational resources and support for community health workers. The third grant recipient, NSO's Medical Respite Program, aims to assist homeless individuals in need of ongoing care.