Addressing hunger among households with children utilizing food assistance resources: an analysis of food pantry users

ConclusionPrograms and policies addressing food insecurity are critical for supporting households with children already accessing supports, so removal of benefits may impact food insecurity. A multi-pronged approach including government-funded benefits and food pantry services is most effective in alleviating food insecurity.SignificancePrevious studies show that food insecurity increases with more children in the household compared to households without children, but focus less on populations already utilizing food assistance programs such as food pantries. This study examines hunger in households with children who are already at risk for food insecurity and receive food pantry services. Studying this population is essential given the recent decision by the US government to remove expanded COVID-19 benefits addressing food insecurity. Households with children experiencing food insecurity now depend upon those benefits and will be affected by their removal. These study findings can inform future resource allocation.
Source: Journal of Public Health - Category: Health Management Source Type: research