Food Security
Strengthening Families by Connecting Food Access and Behavioral Health.
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The Ohio Children’s Alliance is leading a statewide effort to close food gaps for children and youth. Launched in May 2024, this initiative integrates food security into behavioral health care—ensuring families receive the support they need beyond clinical services.
In partnership with Beech Brook and Integrated Services for Behavioral Health, two agencies serving both urban (Cuyahoga) and rural (Athens) communities, the program embeds food security screenings and referrals directly into behavioral health visits. When families are identified as food insecure, they are connected to our continually updated Food Resource Guide, linking them to local food banks, SNAP application assistance, and other essential services.
Backed by UnitedHealthcare, the initiative highlights the powerful link between food access and mental well-being. And it’s working:
335 households screened through May 2025, reaching 1,230 individuals to better understand food and nutritional needs.
30% of households that screened positive now report improved access to healthy food—leading to fuller plates, healthier meals, and stronger futures.
County Food Resource Guides
