Increasing Access to Healthy Food: Inkster Partnership for a Healthier Community

Inkster Partnership for a Healthier Community (IPHC) is funded through the Michigan Department of Community Health, Capacity Building Grant Program. IPHC aims to mobilize diverse organizations and community residents to assess social determinants of health (SDOH) in Inkster, Michigan, and to develop strategies to address food access and security. Once formed, the IPHC met regularly. A needs assessment included focus groups and the use of the Toolkit for Health and Resilience in Vulnerable Environments (THRIVE) to measure SDOH. The focus groups were conducted with IPHC participants, including community-based organizations and residents. Focus group participants shared their recommendations regarding priority SDOH and provided insight on strategies to reduce health disparities in Inkster. Combined focus group and THRIVE data revealed that access to and availability of fresh, nutritious foods was a priority SDOH issue for Inkster residents. The “Feeding Inkster” workgroup became the catalyst for the coalition movement towards a healthier Inkster. This workgroup evolved from an initial fact-finding phase to discussions about food access and security and how they ultimately affect health inequities. The strategic plan developed by the IPHC implemented multi-generational community gardening, nutrition education and awareness of residents about healthy food choices including providing affordable choices. A gardening initiative was championed by community members, Inkster Public Schools, block clubs and other volunteers. This led to a commitment phase, with broad community involvement building on current food initiatives and preparing for a greater expansion of activities and partners to address food access and its effect on the health of residents.