TRAVERSE CITY — Munson Healthcare invited community members of all ages across Northern Michigan to submit original artwork for its Voices for Food Access contest, a regional art initiative focused on stories of nourishment, resilience and creativity.
According to a Jan. 14 news release, submissions are due by Feb. 11 under the theme “Your Voice. Your Table. Our Community.” Entries may include visual art, photography, fiber art, written word, music limited to 60 seconds or other artistic mediums, Munson Healthcare said.
“This program is a beautiful reminder that food is more than a meal — it’s connection, care and community,” Christina Nowak, system director of community health and engagement at Munson Healthcare, said. “We’re proud to offer a platform where people can share their stories and help strengthen food access efforts across Northern Michigan.”
Community members will vote on submissions in three age categories: children up to age 8, youth ages 9 to 17 and adults 18 and up.
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, according to the release.
Munson Healthcare said the prize dollars are intended to help participants try a new healthy recipe, stretch a grocery budget or pass the card along to a local food pantry if it is not needed.
“We’re extending tickets to the Empty Bowls event to invite more community members into the conversation around food access,” Kathy Maly, chair of the Empty Bowls event, said. “The event offers a meaningful way to contribute to the local food landscape, connect with neighbors and support efforts to reduce hunger across Northwest Michigan.”
Winners in each category will also have the opportunity to direct a $1,000 Munson Healthcare donation to a local food access organization of their choice.
“This contest builds upon our ongoing work with community partners to support food access,” Nowak said, citing recent contributions to organizations including the Manna Food Project, Otsego County Food Pantry, Crawford County Community Christian Food Pantry, Charlevoix Community Food Pantry, Blessings in a Backpack programs in Benzie and Manistee and Goodwill Northern Michigan.
Submissions will be accepted online through this link.
Community members are also encouraged to take the Voices for Healthy Food Access pledge and explore the site’s resource bank.
To learn more or submit artwork, visit foodaccess.voicesforcommunityhealth.org.