End the Stigma—Let’s Talk About Food Insecurity

At Haven House, we hear people say they’re barely making ends meet or don’t have enough to get them through the month. 

Unfortunately, this happens all too often.

Part of why this happens too often is that people don’t think they are desperate enough or don’t want anyone to know they are coming into Haven House.

The stigma around needing food assistance prevents many people from coming in and accessing services when they would be the most beneficial. 

We can work to end the stigma associated with utilizing food assistance programs by learning about hunger and food insecurity.

First of all, what is food insecurity? 

Food insecurity and hunger are not the same things. We all feel hungry sometimes, but when you’re not sure where your next meal is coming from or if you will run out of food by the end of the week, you may be facing food insecurity.

What does food insecurity look like?

The signs of food insecurity may be easy to miss.

We often think we’ll be able to tell if someone doesn’t have enough to eat, but food insecurity doesn’t look like we’d expect.

Maybe a parent makes sure their children have enough to eat, but they are skipping their own meals.

Maybe your child has a friend who seems preoccupied with food whenever they come over to play. Or maybe your child talks about a classmate who is angry or aggressive at times or gets in trouble for not paying attention in class.

These things don’t always mean that someone isn’t getting enough to eat, but because it’s easy to accidentally miss the signs of food insecurity, knowing what to look for helps us extend empathy and compassion for our community members.

Feeding America has some tips about recognizing food insecurity here.

Who faces food insecurity?

Car troubles, medical bills, job loss, family emergencies, and belonging to a racial or ethnic group that is systemically underserved are all factors that can contribute to food insecurity.

It doesn’t matter if you are a family of 5, a senior on a fixed income, or a young single person working full time that just can’t make ends meet; life can happen anytime.

How does food insecurity affect kids?

Food insecurity in children affects many things, from cognitive problems to low birth rates and anemia. Chronic nutrient deficits can contribute to long-term health conditions in the future and impede their growth rate.

Children who experience food insecurity may also have increased aggression and anxiety or difficulty concentrating in school.

What if I think I may be facing food insecurity?

Come see us!

You don't have to be in dire straits to come into Haven House. Our services supplement your food needs, so you don't have to worry about things like milk, bread, and other cupboard staples when you make your grocery list. 

What can I do to help?

Donate to your local food bank.

Look out for your friends and neighbors.

We can’t always see the signs of food insecurity, and the added stigma prevents some people from feeling comfortable enough to ask for help. But if you notice any of these signs, it never hurts to tell someone about food assistance services.