The Impact of Homeless Shelters on Food Access and Choice Among Homeless Families in Minnesota

ObjectiveTo determine how and where homeless families access food, and to determine factors that influence food choice.DesignSeven focus groups (90 minutes each) were conducted by two moderators and audio-taped.SettingTwo homeless shelters serving families.ParticipantsFifty-three parents or guardians (M = 11; F = 42) with children 3-12 years of age. Most participants had completed high school or higher education.Phenomenon of InterestFood choice and food access among homeless families.AnalysisTranscripts evaluated for consistency, coded, and evaluated for dominant themes.ResultsLimited cooking and storage space, and poor meal timing and food options at the shelters resulted in participants developing strategies to alleviate hunger. Strategies used to obtain food included using food stamps, stealing food, eating food in grocery stores, pawning personal items, using savvy shopping habits, scavenging in dumpsters (obtaining items such as food from dumpsters), and sacrificing food for children.Conclusions and ImplicationsHomeless families find strategies to prevent food insecurity. Food stamp usage is a common strategy, but it often is insufficient to meet monthly needs, indicating the need for reevaluation of program components. The shelter environment’s impact on families’ food choices suggests a role for nutritionists in ensuring availability of adequate, nutritious foods. Future research is needed to evaluate the impact of the shelter environment on homeless families’ overall nutritional status.