Feed1st, No Questions Asked: How a Hospital-Based Food Pantry Program Grew Its Impact During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Services Research
• Community Health

Background:

• Food insecurity is a significant issue impacting patient health and well-being.
• The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated food access challenges for vulnerable populations.
• Healthcare settings can play a role in addressing social determinants of health, such as food insecurity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact and expansion of the Feed1st food pantry program during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• To assess the effectiveness of a community-engaged, self-serve food pantry model in a medical center.
• To understand changes in food distribution and identify high-impact locations.

Main Methods:

• The study analyzed food distribution data for the Feed1st program from March 2020 to November 2021, comparing it to the same period in 2018-2019.
• The program expanded by adding five new pantries across 11 locations within a Chicago medical center.
• Distribution data was examined across different pantry locations to identify areas of highest need and utilization.

Main Results:

• Feed1st increased food distribution by 124% during the pandemic period (42,970 pounds/36,000 meals) compared to the pre-pandemic period (19,220 pounds/16,000 meals).
• The highest distribution rates were observed in a phlebotomy waiting area and a cafeteria pantry.
• The program successfully scaled its operations to meet increased demand.

Conclusions:

• The community-engaged, self-serve food pantry model effectively increased food access for patients, caregivers, and healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Integrating food pantries within healthcare settings can be a successful strategy to address food insecurity.
• The program demonstrated adaptability and scalability in response to a public health crisis.