Nnakwe Nweze. E. (March 2008). Dietary patterns and prevalence of food insecurity among low-income families participating in community food assistance programs in a Midwest town. Family and Consumer Sciences Research Journal, 36 (3), 229-242. http://fcs.sagepub.com/cgi/reprint/36/3/229.

Brief Description: The study investigated the dietary patterns and prevalence of food insecurity in low-income families participating in community food assistance programs. A total of 236 heads of households were selected as a convenience sample and interviewed using standard research instruments. Households with children reported food insecurity more than households without children. The frequency of food consumption from all the food groups decreased as food insecurity increased.

Implications: The findings from this study could be used by professionals in community settings to increase outreach efforts and help the under-served population, especially those whose income is too high to receive government assistance. Community educators can design programs on food selection in the context of budgetary constraints. They can also work with nonprofit organizations to identify specific families and individuals that are at the greatest need of food assistance and provide education to families at food assistance sites and other points of service.