University Presentation Showcase: Undergraduate Division
How food insecurity goes beyond food: Research and recommendations for higher education
Presenter Hometown
Somerset
Major
Social Work
Department
Anthropology, Sociology, and Social Work
Degree
Undergraduate
Mentor
Amanda Green
Mentor Department
Anthropology, Sociology, and Social Work
Recommended Citation
DeMunbrun, Eric, "How food insecurity goes beyond food: Research and recommendations for higher education" (2023). University Presentation Showcase Event. 29.
https://encompass.eku.edu/swps/2023/undergraduate/29
Abstract
Many college students are unable to access adequate amounts of food, especially highquality foods that are often costly. Nationally, nearly 44% of students will experience food insecurity during their time at college. Research has shown that experiencing food insecurity heightens student risks for performing worse in their courses, experiencing poorer overall health, and having higher rates of depression, anxiety, and stress. Other demands such as working more to afford food and finding adequate housing and transportation can also place additional burdens on these students. At Eastern Kentucky University, we examined food insecurity to gain a better understanding of its true effects on students. Based on these findings and our review of best practices nationally, we provide suggestions for policies and programs that university organizations can create to provide relief for students struggling with food insecurity.
Presentation format
Poster
How food insecurity goes beyond food: Research and recommendations for higher education
Many college students are unable to access adequate amounts of food, especially highquality foods that are often costly. Nationally, nearly 44% of students will experience food insecurity during their time at college. Research has shown that experiencing food insecurity heightens student risks for performing worse in their courses, experiencing poorer overall health, and having higher rates of depression, anxiety, and stress. Other demands such as working more to afford food and finding adequate housing and transportation can also place additional burdens on these students. At Eastern Kentucky University, we examined food insecurity to gain a better understanding of its true effects on students. Based on these findings and our review of best practices nationally, we provide suggestions for policies and programs that university organizations can create to provide relief for students struggling with food insecurity.
