Availability, Accessibility, Utilization: In-Depth Interviews with Food Insecure Residents and Emergency Food Providers in New Haven, CT. Issue 1 (4th March 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Carroll, Grace; Keene, Danya; Santilli, Alycia; Johannes, Joy; Ickovics, Jeannette; O'Connor Duffany, Kathleen
• Is Part Of: Journal of hunger & environmental nutrition. Volume 14:Issue 1/2(2019)
• Page Start: 240
• Page End: 251
• Publication Date: 2019-03-04
• Subjects: Food insecurity -- community health -- emergency food programs -- food pantries -- soup kitchens -- community-based participatory research; Nutrition -- Environmental aspects -- Periodicals; Hunger -- Environmental aspects -- Periodicals; Food supply -- Periodicals; 613.2
• DOI: 10.1080/19320248.2018.1555072
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1932-0248

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Approximately 34% of residents from New Haven's six lowest-income neighborhoods are food insecure, significantly higher than the rest of Connecticut and country (both approximately 12%). To understand the availability, accessibility, and utility of emergency food programs, we conducted 34 semi-structured qualitative interviews with 20 food insecure residents and 14 emergency food providers. Many depend on food programs as a long-term strategy of supplementing groceries rather than a temporary solution in emergency situations; providers are struggling to meet this demand. Transportation and time are barriers to accessing food from programs. Policies and food programs should focus on disseminating accurate information, streamlining policies and practices, and supporting and expanding food programs to meet population need.