Characterizing Demographics, Perceptions, and Food Insecurity based on Client Transportation when Accessing Food Aid in the Greater St. Joseph County Area

Abstract

Introduction: Food insecurity is a pervasive injustice within St. Joseph County, with many turning to local pantries and kitchens for aid. To assess barriers to pantry operation and client accessibility, we conducted a survey of 10 organizations between June and July 2023. A trend appeared as some pantries were disproportionately accessed by cars, indicative of inequitable access for those limited to walking, biking, and taking the bus (WBB). As part of an ongoing project, we first look to characterize the demographics and perceptions of the disadvantaged population as it relates to transportation type. Methods: Participants (n=474) completed questions pertaining to demographics, living situation, food insecurity, and perceptions on transportation and food selection. Results were stratified by transportation method. Results: Those who WBB to the pantry were more likely to be younger (50.3 vs. 54.8 years, p=0.0097), self-identify as non-white (60% vs. 38%, p=0.0014), have smaller household sizes (2.34 vs. 3.33 persons, p=0.0002), and have greater food insecurity scores (6.03 vs. 4.88, p=0.0016). Those who WBB were more likely to agree with “transportation is frequently difficult for me” (66% vs. 43%, p=0.0007) and report ease of transportation having at least a moderate effect in pantry food selection (52% vs. 32%, p=0.0056). Discussion: Our analysis suggests that those who WBB face unique challenges in obtaining food aid. This may be a result of complex socioeconomic factors or inequitable urban planning efforts. Future work will focus on how pantries and community characteristics most effectively promote equitable access.