Availability, Accessibility, Utilization: In-Depth Interviews with Food Insecure Residents and Emergency Food Providers in New Haven, CT
Document Type
Article
Summary Description
This research paper summarizes the findings from interviews with food insecure residents and emergency food providers in New Haven. The interviews are used to identify trends in food program use by residents, barriers to food program access, and recommendations for food assistance policy.
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.
Publication Status
Published
Category Tags
Food, Nutrition, and Agriculture; Social Services
New Haven Neighborhood
New Haven (All)
Recommended Citation
Carroll, G., Keene, D., Santilli, A., Johannes, J., Ickovics, J., & O’Connor Duffany, K. (2018). Availability, Accessibility, Utilization: In-Depth Interviews with Food Insecure Residents and Emergency Food Providers in New Haven, CT. Journal of Hunger & Environmental Nutrition, 14(1–2), 240–251. https://doi.org/10.1080/19320248.2018.1555072