TRAVERSE CITY — Munson Healthcare is inviting community members to participate in the Voices for Food Access contest, encouraging residents of Northern Michigan to share their experiences with food access through original artwork. Submissions are due by Feb. 11.
According to a Jan. 14 news release, the contest, themed “Your Voice. Your Table. Our Community,” aims to celebrate stories of nourishment, resilience and creativity. Participants can submit various forms of art including visual art, photography, written word and music, all reflecting their perspectives on what food access means to them.
The first 75 submissions will receive a $50 digital gift card, redeemable for fresh, canned, or frozen fruits and vegetables at Michigan grocery stores, along with a ticket to the Northwest Michigan Food Coalition Empty Bowls event.
Community members will vote on submissions in three age categories: Children (up to age 8), Youth (ages 9–17), and Adults (age 18 and up). Winners will have the opportunity to direct a $1,000 Munson Healthcare donation to a local food access organization of their choice.
The contest is designed to raise awareness about local food access challenges while encouraging creativity and community engagement. Submissions can be completed online via foodaccess.voicesforcommunityhealth.org, and residents are also encouraged to take the Voices for Healthy Food Access pledge.
The contest seeks to engage and uplift community dialogue about food access, aiming for a meaningful impact on local food systems. More details and updates will be shared as the contest progresses.