For a Food Secure D.C.

clalsstaff

Jan 17

Food Insecurity among Latinx Populations in Washington D.C.

by Lia Sullivan*

In Washington, D.C., a culturally diverse and celebrated city, a less-discussed reality exists for minority populations. Food insecurity is at the forefront of issues for many minority communities in D.C. It is imperative to understand the unique needs and cultural characteristics of a group to ensure food insecurity issues are addressed efficiently.

Many supplemental government assistance programs created during the COVID-19 pandemic were shut down with little warning to benefit recipients. Because of this, there was a surge in food insecurity in the district, especially amongst Hispanic and other minority populations. The economic fallout of the pandemic extended beyond food assistance programs, with the loss of full-time jobs and work hours shortened.

The USDA defines food insecurity as "a lack of consistent access to enough food for an active, healthy lifestyle." Extensive research by the Capital Area Food Bank revealed that 32% of metropolitan area residents experienced food insecurity between 2022 and 2023, with 27% identifying as Hispanic. These statistics compare to only 18% of food insecure residents identifying as White. Numerous factors contribute to this disparity, including cultural and language barriers and lack of access to cultural foods.

Programs such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and WIC (Women, Infants & Children) exist to alleviate grocery costs for low-income families by providing monthly stipends for certain grocery items. However, these programs often exclude traditional foods and staples. Broadening the benefits for SNAP and WIC would allow for already acculturating Latinx community members to keep a piece of their home within them.

Community organizations and city-wide initiatives play a large role in battling food insecurity for all populations. Organizations such as D.C. Hunger Solutions, Martha's Table, DCGreens, and more exist to combat the effects of food insecurity through educational programs, outreach events, and expanding food access. However, these programs and educational materials are often offered solely in English, excluding many affected populations. Offering Spanish and other non-English options for programs, hotlines, and flyers is imperative to assisting minorities.

To effectively address and combat food insecurity, policy changes are needed to ensure equal access to food for all. In 2020, the USDA reported that 3,600 of 3,700 WIC-eligible Hispanic/Latino reporting DC residents were enrolled in the program. This data shows how integral the program is for food-insecure Hispanic groups. On January 3rd, 2024, Mayor Muriel Bowser announced plans to expand SNAP benefits for D.C. residents, passing the Give Snap a Raise Amendment Act. This $40 million expansion will allow recipients to receive an extra 10% of monthly benefits from February 17th through the end of September 2024.

Access to plentiful and nutritious food is a fundamental human right, and approaching it requires a multifaceted approach. Washington's residents, including minority populations, should not have to worry where their next meal will be coming from. Through involvement from community members, culturally aware programs, and effective policy, we can make significant progress in ensuring everyone has access to the food they need to learn, grow, and thrive.

*Lia Sullivan is a student in the Sociology, Research, and Practice MA program at American University in Washington, DC. She works for a non-profit working on food insecurity issues.