A Local Level Response to Reducing Childhood Hunger and Advancing SDG#2

Child hunger continues to be ongoing concern in Canada due to adverse effects that poor nutrition can have on developmental outcomes. The objective of this research was to investigate a local-level approach as a potential solution to reducing hunger and improving nutrition for vulnerable children (aged one to fourteen) in the Region of Waterloo (ROW) through a case study of Food4Kids Waterloo Region (F4K-WR). Additionally, the F4K-WR program model was investigated to understand how local-level interventions are helping Canada achieve Sustainable Development Goal # 2: Zero Hunger. A case study approach was the most appropriate method to fulfill the study's objectives because it allowed for an in-depth collection of evidence, which helped to identify gaps and capture information on F4K-WR as a necessary intervention, while debates continue regarding policy reform. Data were collected through observations, document analysis, and in-depth semi-structured interviews. questions. Inductive coding was used to generate themes emerging from the data to identify gaps that need to be addressed for Canada to advance SDG #2. The study found that F4K-WR provides safe access to healthy and nutritious food to vulnerable children on days when they are not in school, a gap in Canada’s food policy. F4K-WR program should maintain a core focus on vulnerable children and nutrition, by ensuring that they continue to receive nutritious food and the support they need to thrive. Due to the interconnectedness of F4K-WR activities with the broader SDGs, a more holistic view is necessary to measure how local-level approaches are helping advance progress on all the SDGs. F4K-WR can achieve this by mobilizing action in partnership with local school boards, the London Branch of the United Way and the Children and Youth Planning Table of Waterloo Region. Key Words: Food Insecurity, Hunger, Vulnerable Children, Local Level, and SDG #2

Author dc:creator

• McCallum, Stephanie

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• King, Leslie

• College of interdisciplinary studies

Language dc:language.iso

en_US

Identifier URI

https://doi.org/10.25316/ir-20311

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:null:10613/28740