"3 Squares Vermont" Food Assistance Usage by Patrons at the Chittenden Emergency Food Shelf

Introduction. Thirty-nine percent of more than 12,000 Vermonters served by the Chittenden Emergency Food Shelf (CEFS) are not enrolled in 3SquaresVT, Vermont's food assistance program. This negatively impacts Vermont's economy and stresses charitable organizations, including the CEFS. This study examined CEFS clientele awareness, utilization, and barriers to participation in 3SquaresVT. Methods. An 8-question survey was designed to assess clientele awareness and affiliation with 3SquaresVT. Demographic data was also collected. Surveys were conducted in an interview format. 202 complete patron responses were collected. Results. Data revealed that most CEFS patrons are aware of 3SquaresVT (94%). The majority of those who are aware are participating in the program (61%). Among the remaining 39% who are not enrolled in 3SquaresVT, “not qualifying” was the most common reason reported, followed by “convenience” and “difficulty of applying”. Demographic analysis revealed that women are almost twice as likely as men to participate (RR = 1.9) and that patrons to the food shelf during the second half of the calendar month are 1.7 times more likely to be participating. Discussion. The Chittenden Emergency Food Shelf could increase participation in the 3SquaresVT program by screening all patrons during their intake survey and distributing informational material to those who are not aware or have limited knowledge of the program. Additionally, allocating CEFS personnel to assist clients with the application process, especially in the first half of the month, would increase participation and provide more food assistance to community members. This approach could be replicated in other communities.