How can you help clients experiencing food insecurity?

1 Assess the situation

The first step is to assess the situation and understand the causes and effects of food insecurity for your client. You can use various tools and methods to screen for food insecurity, such as the Hunger Vital Sign, the Household Food Security Survey Module, or the Food Insecurity Experience Scale. You can also ask open-ended questions, observe the client's behavior and appearance, and review their medical and social history. The assessment should help you identify the client's needs, preferences, barriers, and strengths related to food security.

2 Provide information and referrals

The next step is to provide information and referrals to the client about the available food assistance programs and services in their community. You can help them apply for benefits such as SNAP, WIC, or school meals, or connect them with local food banks, pantries, soup kitchens, or meal delivery programs. You can also educate them about nutrition, budgeting, food safety, and cooking skills, and direct them to reliable sources of information and support. You can use brochures, flyers, websites, apps, or phone numbers to share this information and follow up with the client to ensure they receive the assistance they need.

3 Advocate for change

Another step is to advocate for change at the individual, organizational, and systemic levels to address the root causes and consequences of food insecurity. You can advocate for your client by communicating with their health care providers, employers, landlords, or other stakeholders to ensure they have adequate food and health care. You can also advocate for your organization by participating in policy development, program evaluation, or community partnerships to improve food security services and outcomes. You can also advocate for your system by engaging in social action, lobbying, or coalition building to influence food security policies and practices at the local, state, or national level.

4 Support coping and resilience

The final step is to support coping and resilience for your client who is experiencing food insecurity. You can help them cope with the stress, anxiety, depression, shame, or stigma that may result from food insecurity by providing emotional support, counseling, or therapy. You can also help them build resilience by fostering their self-esteem, self-efficacy, hope, optimism, or gratitude. You can also help them access their social support network, such as family, friends, neighbors, or faith communities, who can offer practical and emotional assistance. You can also help them find meaning and purpose in their life by encouraging their hobbies, interests, goals, or values.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?