In Search of Free Food Resources:An Analysis of Food Insecurity and Safety Challenges for Residents of the City of Trenton

In Search of Free Food Resources:An Analysis of Food Insecurity and Safety Challenges for Residents of the City of Trenton

Food insecurity is an increasingly prevalent socioeconomic issue plaguing many communities in the United States. It is “defined by having insufficient amounts of food, but also a diet lacking in quality, variety, or desirability” (O’Neill Hayes). A household being classified as food insecure may result from a variety of factors, but mainly financial, physical, and logistical challenges contribute to the lack of accessing or preparing quality food. For the millions of people who are struggling financially amidst this pandemic and are facing food insecurity, food quantity is more important than quality. Food insecurity is rising at alarming rates globally, with similar rates in the U.S. This ties back into the importance of understanding what this pandemic means for many people’s health as they are further reliant upon processed and fast food.