WCU Professor Co-Authors Article On Food Insecurity During Coronavirus

Press release from West Chester University:

COVID-19 is raising social justice concerns across the nation like homelessness, unemployment,
and food insecurity. At the forefront of one of these issues is Megan Schraedley,
assistant professor in the Department of Communication and Media at West Chester University.

Schraedley, along with three other professional colleagues, co-authored expert commentary
about strategies to combat food insecurity during COVID-19. A specialty area for Schraedley,
she also organized an important forum on food security and communication which was
published in the Journal of Applied Communication Research on April 3 (found here.)

Schraedley says, “Food insecurity is likely a silent and unseen consequence of COVID-19.
This article came about organically while talking with colleagues about what we might
be able to do as communication specialists for those who may want to help their families,
friends, and neighbors, even while abiding by stay-at-home orders. Finally, we wanted
to raise general awareness of hunger and food insecurity and how to talk about these
sensitive issues with care and compassion in a time of heightened anxiety and precarity.”

Text of the article appears below.

Four Strategies for Combatting Food Insecurity During COVID-19

COVID-19 is changing the face of food insecurity in the U.S.

As the pandemic continues to ravage the economy, more people than ever before could
be faced with the prospect of going hungry. They could be dealing with a sudden loss
of income, a sick caregiver or an inability to stock up on food. Others might have
relied on school lunch programs to help feed their children or live in food deserts
or communities with grocery shortages. Still others might be in a high-risk group
warned against shopping for themselves.

So, what can individuals do to help, even for people who aren’t comfortable admitting
they’re hungry or need food?

A group of communication researchers with expertise in food insecurity and social
class offers four tips for how to talk with those facing food insecurity during a
crisis: Debbie S. Dougherty at the University of Missouri; Megan Schraedley at West
Chester University; Tim Huffman at Saint Louis University; and Angela Gist-Mackey
at the University of Kansas.

1. Consider the digital divide: Remember, not everyone uses social media. The
current food security crisis with COVID-19 is directly connected to the digital divide,
which has left a large portion of the population isolated. For example, many older
generations do not use Facebook, Twitter or other social media platforms. In addition,
many people in rural areas do not have access to quality internet connections that
would make social media a reliable form of interaction. The MU experts encourage individuals
to reach out to others using older technology, such as telephones and email.

2. Normalize the struggle: Use language that normalizes food insecurity in present
times. People tend to compare themselves with others. If people believe that others
have enough food, they may feel ashamed of their own food insecurity. In interactions,
make it clear that many people are food insecure right now. Normalizing such experiences
and struggles can remove the shame. Hopefully, communicating this way will help people
more readily admit when they have need.

3. Destigmatize the need for help: Given the broad scope of the current crisis
and the impact on our food distribution system, neighbors, parents and coworkers could
be food insecure right now. Food insecurity is stigmatized in the U.S., as if not
having enough food is shameful and one’s own fault. Due to these stigmas, people tend
to hide their hunger.

In their ongoing research on food security in precarious economies, the researchers
discovered many people would rather go hungry than admit their hunger to family, friends
and networks. In the U.S., people tend to decline offers of help, even when they could
accept the offers. Being seen as a “charity case” is stigmatized and can damage a
person’s dignity. Therefore, instead of asking to drop off food, ask if there can
be an exchange of some small service. For example, in exchange for bringing over food
or dropping off dinner outside someone’s door, ask the person if they can demonstrate
how to knit or lend muffin tins once the social distancing is over. This type of exchange
can help preserve a person’s dignity and also has the opportunity to create what strong
communities are built upon — social capital.

4. Remember everyone’s emotions: This can be a stressful time for many people.
People can experience strong emotions, including worry, anxiety and depression. These
emotions can put a strain on a person’s mental and social health, as well as many
food-related behaviors. For example, people may turn away offers of food because they
are afraid that they will become infected by touching food deliveries. There is a
minor risk that this could happen, but taking some advised steps regarding making
or delivering food can ensure health and safety. When making food for a neighbor,
make sure kitchen counters and sinks are cleaned and disinfected, and wash hands frequently.
Then tell neighbors the steps taken to ensure the food is safe.

Anyone experiencing food insecurity should consider visiting these resources:

Find a local food bank or pantry:

· https://www.feedingamerica.org/find-your-local-foodbank

· https://www.foodpantries.org/

Locate farmers markets and food directories:

· https://www.ams.usda.gov/local-food-directories/farmersmarkets

Apply for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP/WIC)

· https://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/state-directory

Advocate for those who are food insecure:

· https://www.govtrack.us/congress/members

· https://www.usa.gov/elected-officials

This press release was produced by West Chester University. The views expressed here are the author’s own.