Date of Award

2025

Document Type

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Degree Name

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Department

Nursing

Committee Chair

Darlene Showalter

Committee Member

Joycelyn Craighead

Committee Member

Shika Modi

Subject(s)

Community-based social services, Food relief--Alabama--Huntsville--Evaluation, Food security--Alabama--Huntsville

Abstract

Food insecurity in the United States (U.S.) is anticipated to remain a significant concern in 2025. In 2023, 13.5% of U.S. households,18 million individuals, experienced food insecurity, an increase from 12.8% in 2022. Given these rising figures, considerable emphasis has been placed on food insecurity as a social determinant of health, functioning as both a contributing factor and a predictor of patient outcomes. Community food distribution agencies are essential in mitigating food insecurity within Madison County. However, few studies have conducted comprehensive evaluations of these community food distribution centers. This assessment evaluated the effectiveness and efficiency of a local food distribution facility by integrating quantitative data from participant surveys and insights from stakeholder interviews. Retrospective data from 2022 to 2024 were analyzed. Data on participant health status, access to care, satisfaction levels, food security, and utilization were collected via survey, including a validated tool. A survey of 320 patrons over four weeks showed that most are unemployed (67%), unmarried (50%), and 80% face food insecurity. Additionally, 40% suffer from chronic conditions and depend on emergency room services. Satisfaction levels were notably high at 97%. The non-profit organization supported its capacity through collaborations with private donors, local businesses, faith-based groups, and the North Alabama Food Bank. The agency’s objective of providing daily food assistance to individuals and families was achieved, serving between 600 and 900 individuals each week, with no eligibility restrictions. Therefore, this evaluation demonstrated the center's role in alleviating participants' food insecurity. It is recommended to perform regular evaluations utilizing consistent methodologies to document data effectively. Expanding services through collaboration with healthcare providers could establish an integrated care system, thereby reducing the dependence on emergency departments that are already overburdened. These insights aim to optimize the center's operations and enhance its ability to serve the community effectively. Keywords: food insecurity, food distribution center, community partnership

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Available for download on Tuesday, June 15, 2027

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