Community Action House to open ‘Food Club and Opportunity Hub’ in 2021
HOLLAND — Construction has begun on a new project for Community Action House.
The nonprofit is scheduled to open its “Food Club and Opportunity Hub” this fall. The club will be located at 739 Paw Paw Drive in the former home of Yff’s Neighborhood Grocery — most recently owned by Semco.
The 16,000-square-foot building will aim to increase access to healthy food choices for low-income families in a grocery store-style setting. The project, in total, required a fundraising effort of $4.25 million. So far, $3.75 million has been raised.
According to a statement from the nonprofit, a “generous donor” will match up to $150,000 in donations during the months of May and June.
“Bringing the food club model to the lakeshore will dramatically expand food access in a high-choice, high-dignity environment,” said Community Action House Executive Director Scott Rumpsa.
“By engaging low-income neighbors through a low-cost membership fee, shoppers will have access to food and hygiene staples in a grocery store setting that features fresh foods and expanded hours to accommodate a variety of schedules.”
The club will be closely modeled on Kent County’s existing Community Food Club, which states more than 90 percent of its members have reported an increase in their consumption of fruits and vegetables.
The store will also be home to an Opportunity Hub, where staff from the nonprofit can connect community members to resources like financial education, housing and foreclosure prevention.
“With the guidance of Ottawa Food and the Ottawa County Health Department, we’re confident that this big initiative to address food insecurity and health will create a stronger community foundation so all can reach their potential,” said Holland City Manager Keith Van Beek.
Hundreds of businesses and individuals have already donated to the campaign. To learn more or make a donation, visit hzfoodclub.org.
