HEALTHY COMMUNITIES
Stronger health.
Stronger communities.
Health and well-being shape our ability to work, learn, connect with others, and thrive.
Healthy Communities is one of United Way's areas of impact nationwide. Here on the Lakeshore, our locally adopted 2026–2029 Community Investment priorities focus on Housing Stability, Childcare & Early Childhood Education, and Early Literacy Development.
But our work toward a healthier community continues.
Across Muskegon, Newaygo, and Oceana Counties, United Way of the Lakeshore supports programs, partnerships, and volunteer efforts that help people access nutritious food, remain independent as they age, connect with care, and live healthier, more connected lives.
FOOD & NUTRITION
Helping people access the food they need to thrive.
Access to nutritious food is an important part of individual and family well-being. United Way helps address food access through direct community efforts and volunteer service.
Oceana Mobile Food Pantries
United Way of the Lakeshore works alongside community partners to coordinate Mobile Food Pantries in Oceana County, bringing food directly into the community. Volunteers help make distributions possible through setup, food distribution, traffic flow, cleanup, and other support.
AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP
RSVP members also serve in roles that address food and nutrition needs, helping community organizations provide food and other essential support to individuals and families.
AGING IN PLACE
Helping older adults remain independent and connected.
For many older adults, staying healthy also means having the support needed to remain safely and independently in their homes and communities.
Through AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP, adults age 55 and older serve in volunteer roles that help other community members age in place, maintain independence, and stay connected.
At the same time, RSVP gives older adults meaningful opportunities to remain active and engaged through service, creating benefits for both the volunteer and the people they serve.
ACCESS TO CARE
Helping people connect with care and support.
Accessing healthcare and other essential services can be difficult when people face barriers related to transportation, information, mobility, or available support.
Through AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP, volunteers serve alongside community partners working to improve access to care and help individuals connect with the services and support they need.
COMMUNITY HEALTH & RESILIENCY
Responding when our community needs us.
Health and well-being can be affected quickly when families face emergencies, disasters, disruptions to basic needs, or other unexpected challenges.
United Way of the Lakeshore works alongside community organizations, public agencies, volunteers, and other partners to help identify needs, connect resources, and mobilize community support when challenges arise.
Our role may look different depending on the need, but our goal remains the same: helping our community respond together and connecting people with the support they need.