Description
INTRODUCTION: People experiencing homelessness (PEH) often rely on community based meal service organizations (MSOs) for consistent food access. Given the high burden of diet related chronic illness among PEH and the role of therapeutic lifestyle changes in disease management, MSOs represent a key setting for improving nutritional quality. However, little is known about how MSOs resource and sustain meal services or how nutrition is considered within their meal provision processes. This study examined (1) meal provision strategies, (2) meal planning and food acquisition practices, and (3) the role of nutrition-related knowledge in service delivery. METHODS: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with representatives of MSOs in Austin, Fort Worth, Houston, and San Antonio. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using the Framework Method. Two investigators jointly coded initial transcripts to develop a codebook; remaining transcripts were coded independently. Organizational characteristics were collected via survey and summarized descriptively. RESULTS: Twelve MSOs participated, varying in type, years of operation, and service setting (i.e., brick and mortar, street outreach, supportive housing). Service frequency ranged from weekly to daily, with <50 to >1,000 meals served per week. Three distinct meal provision models emerged, which determined meal provision processes. For example, brick and mortar programs prepared meals onsite; food rescue programs redistributed catered food via mobile outreach; supportive housing programs employed chefs to cook for residents; and others partnered with restaurants or relied heavily on volunteer cooks. Food sources included individual donations, food banks, restaurants, and grocery purchases. Funding sources were diverse but often unstable. Regulatory constraints (e.g., restrictions on service location) and increased demand following encampment sweeps further influenced meal provision. Nutrition guidance was largely informal, grounded in general beliefs about balanced meals rather than nutrition guidelines. Across models, representatives emphasized serving familiar, comforting foods to foster trust, affirm dignity, and provide consistency for clients. CONCLUSION: This study shows that community based MSOs play a critical role for PEH by providing food, safe spaces, and social connection. MSOs navigate constraints and client preferences with a focus on trust, dignity, and consistent access rather than formal nutrition guidelines. Strengthening MSO funding, infrastructure, and partnerships could enhance the stability and quality of meal provision for PEH.
Publication Info
2026.