Meridian, a leading managed care organization in the state of Michigan and a wholly-owned subsidiary of Centene Corporation (NYSE: CNC), has invested an additional $20,000 in Habitat for Humanity projects in Detroit to improve housing affordability, safety and quality for low to moderate income families seeking a decent place to live and wanting to build long-term financial security. The investment is part of Meridian’s ongoing commitment to address the root causes of health disparities to create healthier, more vibrant communities across Michigan.
Meridian’s donation to Habitat Detroit will help the nonprofit builder of affordable homes offset the rising costs of building and construction materials and associated operational costs. In 2023, the two organizations formed a partnership, and Meridian donated $52,000 last year to Habitat with a commitment of staff volunteers who have worked on homes primarily on Detroit’s eastside. More staff volunteer events are planned for next year.
Housing stability continues to be a major issue across Michigan, including in Detroit, the largest city in Michigan, with an estimated population of 633,218. An estimated 39,000 Detroit households — around 13% of the city’s residents — spent more than half their income on rent and mortgages in 2022, well above the 30% considered affordable, which means families may have trouble paying other bills, whether that’s food or medical care, according to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Studies have also shown poor housing options may contribute to health issues due to lack of access to a reliable source of medical care, overcrowding and safety risks, such as mold, water leaks, and inadequate heating or cooling systems.
In addition, Habitat Detroit also offers a critical repair program for eligible homeowners such as installing a new roof, gutters, siding, HVAC systems, and accessibility modifications such as ramps. Under a separate program, Habitat Detroit, in partnership with Henry Ford Health System, provides a program called “Return Home Safe,” which conducts in-home fall risk assessments for those 55 and older. Participants must be referred to the program by Henry Ford. However, repairs such as installing grab bars and fixing uneven flooring are done at no cost for those who are eligible.
“We’re honored to continue our partnership with Habitat because we know a home is more than just a roof over your head – there’s a strong correlation between mental and physical health and having a stable place to live. Meridian is committed to ensuring Michigan residents have access to safe and affordable housing, which is one of the best ways we can address health issues that affect many in our state,” said Tara O’Neil, Senior Vice President, Operations, at Meridian, who serves on Habitat Detroit’s board of directors.
“We are grateful for partners like Meridian who allow us to make meaningful changes in Detroit,” noted Stephanie Osterland, Habitat Detroit’s CEO. “We see daily the positive effects having a safe, stable, and affordable place to call home has on a person’s wellbeing.”
About Meridian
Meridian in Michigan provides government-sponsored managed care services to families, children, seniors and individuals with complex medical needs primarily through Medicaid (Meridian), Medicare Advantage and Medicare Prescription Drug Plans (Wellcare), Medicare-Medicaid Plans (Health Insurance Marketplace (Ambetter from Meridian). Meridian is a Centene Corporation company, a leading healthcare enterprise committed to helping people live healthier lives. For more information about Meridian, please visit mimeridian.com.
Desmarie and her family recently moved into their new home on Maryland St. in Detroit’s Morningside neighborhood.
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