Michigan Business Beat | Dr. Phil Knight, Executive Director, Food Bank Council of Michigan (FBCM).

Jeffrey Mosher speaks with Dr. Phil Knight, executive director, Food Bank Council of Michigan (FBCM). Dr. Knight was holding meetings with many at this year's Mackinac Policy Conference. And the were several reasons to speak with him. Ten, in fact! Interviews on Mackinac Island regarding the critical role Michigan food banks played during the pandemic and why they believe it is in Michigan’s power to end food insecurity in the state. This recorded interview served as the EDGE Partnerships MVP (Most Valuable Partner) interview for June 2022. This conversation occurred during the Detroit Chamber Mackinac Policy Conference on Thursday, June 2nd, at the lobby of the Chippewa Hotel / Pink Pony. Here are those ten questions covered with Dr. Phil; #1 With the unprecedented need during the pandemic, the state relied on FBCM and its members to address that need. FBCM did so by increasing distributions by 47%. #2 The need continues but FBCM is more reactive to the economy as it witnesses a misalignment of resources and seek alignment of federal commodity programs for greater effectiveness to meet the community need. #3 There is a $50 million line item for FBCM proposed by the governor, and $100 placeholders in both budgets. The ROI with food bank is exceptionally high, and Dr. Knight wants to discuss how these funds can set up FBCM for success in addressing food insecurity statewide. #4 Why it matters: Food banks impact vital areas of Michigan’s economy, including healthcare outcomes, represents 1/6 of the U.S. economy and food banks save health dollars. Food banks impact educational outcomes. A recent headline said Michigan is one of the worst in the U.S. for 4th grade reading. FBCM can help and have proof it can do so. Investing in food security now helps ensure a solid, literate workforce tomorrow. #5 FBCM is building a close loop referral system so when a person is screened for food insecurity, it can ensure he or she gets food no matter where the screening took place (e.