The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #66724

Tori Kjer, Community Food Security Coalition, PO Box 209, Venice, CA 90294, 310-822-5410, tori@foodsecurity.org

Abstract: Community Food Assessments: A tool for change

Community Food Assessments have emerged as a powerful tool in planning for and securing access to nutritious food. During a Food Assessment, community members, activists, social workers, local organizations, public health workers, faith-based groups, university staff, and others come together to examine where and how people get food in their community. This participatory research approach can be used to explore and address a wide range of food-related issues, including hunger and diet-related diseases.

Possible benefits of conducting an assessment include:

Community Participation and Empowerment

• Engage residents in learning about the food system
• Build capacity for leadership, planning, and research
• Facilitate new connections and identify common concerns and goals

Program Development

• Improve effectiveness of existing programs
• Generate valuable information about community food resources
• Increase funding and support by highlighting new and existing efforts

Policy /Advocacy

• Provide evidence of community issues and needs
• Articulate food security policy opportunities
• Mobilize the community to advocate for policy change

At the conclusion of the session, the participant will be able to:

• Identify two tools or methods that can be used to conduct a CFA.
• Identify four key components of a CFA.
• Discuss four potential benefits or outcomes of a CFA.
• Discuss connection between CFAs and their work.

Learning Objectives:

• At the conclusion of the session, the participant will be able to:
• • Identify two tools or methods that can be used to conduct a CFA.
  • Identify four key components of a CFA.
  • Discuss four potential benefits or outcomes of a CFA.
  • Discuss connection between CFAs and their work.

Keywords: Participatory Research, Food and Nutrition

Related Web page: www.foodsecurity.org

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Community Food Security Coalition and other organizations who have been active in food assessments in California and the United States
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.