- 1 in 6 US children live in a food-insecure household
- Childhood food insecurity can lead to poor health status, mental health problems, and poor educational outcomes
- Help is available for your family or patients – find resources using the links and information here
What is food insecurity? Food insecurity means not having adequate or consistent access to nutrition needed to maintain a healthy, active lifestyle. This means children may be missing meals or not receiving enough nutrition – which can lead to hunger or a higher risk of obesity. What that looks like on a day to day basis is a child not knowing if they will have a dinner available at night, or hungry on the weekends when they lose access to school breakfasts and lunches.
Resources For Families
- The Mid-Ohio Foodbank has resources available for families in need during the COVID-19 pandemic. There is food assistance available by county. Mid-Ohio Foodbank COVID-19 Resources
- Columbus City Schools has resources for families. There are locations where children can receive meals.Columbus City Schools Resource Page
- CAP4KIDS Community Resources During the COVID-19 Outbreak
- Find a local resource for immediate help here
- Download the Food Insecurity Pediatric Practice Poster.
- Download the Parenting at Mealtime and Playtime Resources below:
- Download a handout from the Ohio AAP on Food Emergencies here
- Find and apply for long-term resources at these links:
- WIC – Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children
- SNAP – Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program/Ohio Food Assistance Program
- Summer Food Service Site Finder
- Children’s Hunger Alliance – resources for families in need of food assistance and child care
Resources For Pediatricians
- Download the Food Research and Action Center Toolkit for Pediatricians
- AAP Policy Statements
- Resources from Ohio Public Libraries
- Resources from the Ohio Department of Education
- Get involved with the Ohio AAP’s Food Insecurity work or ask questions by contacting Alex Miller at amiller@ohioaap.org or 614-846-6258