Understanding food insecurity in the community: analysis of Morgantown in West Virginia, USA

Food insecurity is a persistent social problem and is associated with health inequities. Supported by our community’s Health and Wellness Commission, our objectives included examining: (1) factors associated with food pantry utilization and (2) responses to a hypothetical scenario where participants encounter an adult or child needing help, to better understand pro-social behavior (e.g., giving food, giving shelter).

Food-related worry and food-related beliefs scales were developed. T-tests and Chi-square analyses were conducted to identify factors associated with food pantry utilization. Mixed methods explored prosocial behavior in response to scenarios.

Of 184 participants, 142 (77.0%) were female. Most (85.7%) were local residents, and 32% had incomes below the poverty level. Some (n = 25, 13.5%) had used food pantries. Those using food pantries had higher food-related worry and poverty than those who did not (p = 0.001; p = 0.02, respectively). Our quantitative analysis of scenarios showed that fewer actions and different actions were taken for the adult than the child. Our qualitative analysis of scenarios showed that ‘calling the authorities’ was a common response, while others had numerous and elaborate plans for support.

Food insecurity was viewed as important in our community, and even those above the federal poverty level were using food pantries. Those worried about food insecurity were able to use food pantries to meet their needs. Although more supportive of a child, many in our community were willing to help those in need, and some had well-developed strategies of support.