Successes and Challenges in Implementing Food-insecurity Interventions: A Descriptive Case Study of Feeding America Food Banks in Kentucky
Food is a human right, and fighting food insecurity is fighting for food justice. Food insecurity remains a pressing global challenge despite efforts to secure adequate food resources. Feeding America fights rising food insecurity in the United States. It delivers various intervention programs through its network of food banks in local communities. However, limited information exists regarding implementing these interventions in Kentucky, a state grappling with high food insecurity rates. This qualitative study addressed this gap by describing the successes and challenges of implementing food insecurity interventions for four Feeding America food banks in Kentucky, represented by five interviewees. Analysis of the interview data using open coding identified 29 challenges and 36 successes in implementing food-insecurity interventions across the generated themes of Resource Administration and Management, Collaborative Relations and Communication, and Internal Management and Operations. A common technology and data storage weakness emerged among participating food banks, underscoring most challenges. To address the wide range of food insecurity challenges, I proposed a transformational technology strategy. It includes three recommendations: community apps, Blockchain donation tracking, and drone delivery. However, the solution’s substantial financial and human resource requirements necessitate the national Feeding America organization's support of its local food banks during execution. Successful implementation of this solution will enable Feeding America food banks in Kentucky to enhance their delivery of food-insecurity interventions and better serve those in need. Keywords: food-insecurity interventions, Kentucky hunger, feeding America, food justice, food banks
Feeding America, Food Banks, Food Insecurity, Food Justice, Hunger, Kentucky Hunger
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