Nutrition Topics
National food security policy aims to ensure that all Americans, especially children, have access to a healthy diet and do not experience food access limitations caused by lack of money or other resources.
Mathematica is a leader in assessing the food security of low-income populations and in examining the impacts of nutrition assistance programs on the prevalence and severity of food insecurity. Mathematica also studies the emergency food assistance system that food-insecure households turn to for help. This loosely connected network of food pantries, emergency kitchens, and shelters provides food, usually on a walk-in basis. We conducted three national surveys to show how well the system functions, and help the nation's food banks understand their clientele's needs.
Evidence & Insights
Publication
Reaching a Vulnerable Population: Why Adolescents Participate in the National School Lunch Program
Fourteen percent of households with children under 18 years were food insecure in 2018. However, participation in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) is lower among adolescents compared to younger children.
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Publication
A Randomized Controlled Trial of Three School Meals and Weekend Food Backpacks on Food Security in Virginia
Publication
A Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial of a Home-Delivered Food Box on Food Security in Chickasaw Nation
Publication
Continued Participation in Congregate Meal Programs: The Role of Geographic Access to Food
Publication
ESAP State Enrollment Data Collection Project
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