Exceptional integrative care with pediatric generalists and specialists on site is just one of many ways Wayne Pediatrics sets itself apart from other metropolitan Detroit practices. Another is an unwavering commitment to addressing social determinants of health. Food insecurity and inaccessibility of nutritious food choices is among the issues the Midtown practice confronts nearly daily.

Shortly after opening its doors in the fall of 2020, the medical staff was presented with challenges related to food access by the families they served. A group of staff members quickly went into action to address the concern, and Wayne Pediatrics’ free in-house snack food program was born.

“When families come to us for serious or even routine care for their children, understandably it can often be a stressful time,” said Christopher Youngman, M.D., chief medical officer of Wayne Pediatrics. “It is our hope that our free snack program provides one less worry for families in knowing this program is available to them whenever they are in our office.”

The staff voluntarily provides upward of $200 monthly to purchase and restock the in-house pantry with a variety of snacks. Fresh fruit, granola, juice boxes and cereals are just some of the choices available to families free of charge. To lessen the possibility of any stigma families may feel accepting the food, the staff pre-packages snack bags and offers them to all patients and their family members.

In addition to Wayne Pediatrics’ free snack program, the practice also has a vegetable garden in its courtyard that provides fresh produce to families, also free of charge.

To learn more about Wayne Pediatrics or schedule an appointment, visit www.waynepediatrics.org or call 313-448-9600.