Combating Food Insecurity

by | Jan 10, 2021 | Food Programs, Independent Living

Combating Food Insecurity
In 2019, food insecurity affected nearly 13.7 million U.S. households, or 10% of the U.S. population, according to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and millions of Americans still out of work, this year families are finding it harder than ever to put food on the table. Children who rely on school meals now have limited access to healthy foods, which can stunt adolescent growth and their ability to learn. Seniors who live on a fixed income may find it more difficult to find a balance between food and healthcare costs. Those who struggle with food insecurity may also be more at risk for chronic diseases due to stress and not being able to afford nutritious food.

There are numerous programs that offer assistance to families struggling with food insecurity. One of the most common resources is the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). SNAP, also known as food stamps, provides low-income families with money for food. According to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, 38 million Americans received SNAP benefits in 2019. Since the pandemic hit in February 2020, the amount of benefits issued has gone up by 17 percent. Food banks and pantries are other great resources for those struggling with food insecurity, and you can find your local food bank here.

For those who have the time and space, gardening can be a cost-effective way to provide nutritious food for you and your family. If you don’t have the resources to grow your own garden, farmer’s markets are an affordable option when purchasing fresh fruits and vegetables. If you live in a food desert area, try to find mobile food distributors who offer healthy and affordable food options, such as Diana Gregory Outreach Services. There’re so many great resources out there to help those struggling with food insecurity, such as Feeding America and Meals on Wheels America, it’s just a matter of finding what option works best for you.

Sources: Feeding America. Addressing Food Insecurity in Health Care Settings. Retrieved from https://hungerandhealth.feedingamerica.org/explore-our-work/community-health-care-partnerships/addressing-food-insecurity-in-health-care-settings/  Feeding America. Causes and Consequences of Food Insecurity. Retrieved from https://hungerandhealth.feedingamerica.org/understand-food-insecurity/hunger-health-101/  Healthcare Without Harm. Connecting food-insecure individuals to resources. Retrieved from https://foodcommunitybenefit.noharm.org/resources/implementation-strategy/connecting-food-insecure-individuals-resources  Silva, C. (2020, September 27). Food Insecurity In The U.S. By The Numbers. Retrieved from https://www.npr.org/2020/09/27/912486921/food-insecurity-in-the-u-s-by-the-numbers  USDA Economic Research Service. Key Statistics & Graphics. (2020, September 09). Retrieved from https://www.ers.usda.gov/topics/food-nutrition-assistance/food-security-in-the-us/key-statistics-graphics.aspx