Date of Award

Spring 2022

Degree Type

Thesis

Department

College of Social Work

Director of Thesis

Dr. Maryah Fram

First Reader

Dr. Kara Montgomery

Second Reader

Dr. Kara Montgomery

Abstract

Background: As food insecurity disproportionately affects college students and students are often unable to receive government nutritional assistance, more lasting, sustainable interventions are needed to decrease food insecurity on college campuses. The purpose of this study was to measure the satisfaction of the FoodShare program, a low-cost, biweekly fresh produce delivery, at the University of South Carolina. The purpose of this study was to pilot FoodShare’s program with adaptations to the University of South Carolina and examine participants’ experience with the program. Methods: Forty-three students, faculty, and staff purchased boxes over a three-month period. FoodShare boxes were purchased and delivered through the College of Social Work on a biweekly basis for three months were recruited via social media, email, and paper fliers, and purchased at least one box over a three-month period. These boxes were purchased and delivered on a biweekly basis through the College of Social Work. Twenty-six participants completed a 13-item survey that included questions concerning demographics (age, housing status, student status), satisfaction with the program, and food security. Participants reported satisfaction with the program on six different criteria: overall satisfaction, selection of produce, ability to use the program, ease of placing an order, convenience of pickup times, and affordability. Additionally, many participants reported that they or someone they knew had trouble accessing fresh fruits and vegetables, and many reported worrying about running out of food generally, and they believed that FoodShare may be a tool to address this food insecurity. Conclusions: Satisfaction with the program’s usability and convenience of pick-up times may address some existing barriers to the use of on-campus food pantries. Additionally, overall satisfaction and satisfaction with affordability may suggest that the FoodShare program may be a viable tool for addressing food insecurity on college campuses, as it may have less stigma and barriers to use than food pantries and SNAP benefits.

First Page

1

Last Page

30

Rights

© 2022, Sophie Crosby

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