KAHP awards $200,000 grant to Metro United Way to support children’s nutrition
Funding will strengthen food access for children served by out-of-school programs this summer
LOUISVILLE, Ky. — As parents across the region make summer arrangements for their children, the Kentucky Association of Health Plans (KAHP), the trade association representing Medicaid managed care organizations and commercial insurers in the Commonwealth, along with Metro United Way, are working to strengthen food access and nutrition for children through a new $200,000 grant.
The grant from KAHP to Metro United Way will support organizations that serve children through out-of-school time programs across the Greater Louisville region, including funding for the distribution of 5,000 healthy snack kits at a time when school-based meals are not available and families rely on community programming for daily support.
The initiative will serve children and families in Bullitt, Jefferson, Oldham and Shelby counties in Kentucky, and Clark, Floyd and Harrison counties in Indiana.
“Community programs play a critical role for families when school is out,” said Tom Stephens, president and CEO of the Kentucky Association of Health Plans. “This grant helps ensure those programs can serve kids well during the summer and support the healthy habits families work hard to build.”
Metro United Way works with more than 200 nonprofit partners across the region that provide out-of-school time programming throughout the year, as well as dozens more focused on early care and education.
“This support from KAHP helps our partners focus on what matters most, meeting children’s needs in a healthy and consistent way,” said Adria Johnson, president and CEO of Metro United Way. “Access to nutritious food helps children fully engage in the programs that support their growth and development.”
KAHP and Metro United Way are also looking beyond the summer months, with the grant supporting the distribution of 4,000 backpacks filled with school supplies to help children prepare for the transition back to the classroom.
About the Kentucky Association of Health Plans
The Kentucky Association of Health Plans is the trade association representing Medicaid managed care organizations and commercial insurers in the Commonwealth. KAHP advocates for policies that improve health outcomes, expand coverage options, and strengthen access to high-quality, affordable care for Kentucky families. www.kahp.org
About Metro United Way
Metro United Way brings together nonprofits, businesses, volunteers and donors to address the region’s most pressing challenges and help children and families move from hardship to hope across the Greater Louisville area. www.metrounitedway.org