Predictors of Food Insecurity and Childhood Hunger in the Bronx During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Sameena Azhar; Abigail M Ross; Eve Keller; John Weed; Gregory Acevedo

doi:10.1007/s10560-023-00927-y

Predictors of Food Insecurity and Childhood Hunger in the Bronx During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Child Adolesc Social Work J. 2023 May 15:1-14. doi: 10.1007/s10560-023-00927-y. Online ahead of print.

Authors

Sameena Azhar¹, Abigail M Ross¹, Eve Keller², John Weed³, Gregory Acevedo¹

Affiliations

¹ Fordham University, Graduate School of Social Service, 113 W. 60th Street, Room 716E, New York, NY 10023 USA.
² Fordham University, Fordham College at Rose Hill, New York, USA.
³ BronxWorks, New York, USA.

Abstract

Using a community-based participatory research approach, we conducted a survey of 218 food pantry recipients in the south Bronx to determine predictors of food insecurity and childhood hunger. In adjusted multiple regression models, statistically significant risk factors for food insecurity included: having one or more children and not having health insurance. Statistically significant protectors against childhood hunger were: having a graduate degree, having health insurance and Spanish being spoken at home. Experiencing depression symptoms was positively associated with both food insecurity and childhood hunger. Frequency of food pantry use was not significantly associated with either food insecurity nor childhood hunger. This study suggests that targeting families with multiple children and without insurance will best help to promote food security among residents of the south Bronx. Social policy implications related to food security and benefit provision through the COVID-19 pandemic are also provided.

Keywords: Bronx; COVID-19; Childhood hunger; Food insecurity; Food pantry; New York City.

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