What is Food Insecurity?

At Grace Care Center, the first challenge we often help our Friends face is food insecurity. 

But what does it mean to be food insecure? How many are facing food insecurity here in Central Indiana?

We answer these questions – and more – as well as how you can make a difference for those experiencing food insecurity in your area.

Food Insecurity Defined

The USDA defines food insecurity as “the limited or uncertain availability of nutritionally adequate and safe foods, or limited or uncertain ability to acquire acceptable foods in socially acceptable ways.”

To be considered a “food secure” household, every member of the home must be able to easily access enough nutritious and safe food for an active and healthy life at all times. 

That’s right – not only is being able to consistently afford food a requirement for food security, but so is having easy access to foods that are good for your mind and body.

The Health Impacts of Food Security

Not having consistent access to nutritious food has a lot of long-term health implications.

Nutrition affects one’s ability to grow (and stay) healthy and strong, maintain focus and energy levels, as well as build a strong immune system and fight off illnesses. 

Hunger and malnutrition have proven to have both physical and psychological effects, including chronic conditions such as obesity, depression, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and more.

Who Can Be Food Insecure?

So who experiences food insecurity? In reality, most anyone can become food insecure at pretty much any time. 

As of 2024, 13.7 percent of U.S. households were considered food insecure. These households can be found in urban and rural areas and are composed of people from all cultures, faiths, and backgrounds.

Crises such as illnesses or accidents – including those caused by poor nutrition in the first place – can lead to insurmountable bills. People facing these crises often have to make tough choices, such as whether to afford healthcare or food, further contributing to the cycle. 

Several people facing unemployment or underemployment due to various barriers also find it difficult to consistently afford fresh food. And many families face food insecurity when schools are out – think weekends as well as winter and summer breaks – because school meals help ease some of the burden.

Food Insecurity in Indiana

Food insecurity impacts people right here in Indiana, every day. An estimated one in seven Hoosiers – more than 1,033,00 people – are facing hunger. Nearly 300,000 of them are children.

These are our neighbors. Our coworkers. Our classmates. 

What Grace Care Center is Doing About It

At Grace Care Center, we tackle food insecurity head-on with a unique model that provides more than just groceries. Our innovative ecosystem of services is built to meet people where they are, provide ongoing support, and offer tools to break free from poverty.

For most Care Center Friends, their journey starts in the Choice Food Pantry. Here, they are treated with dignity and respect in a grocery store-style setting that empowers them to choose food and household items that fit their needs, preferences, and lifestyle.

Through a points system that encourages healthier selections, Friends are able to access fresh fruits and vegetables, meat and dairy products, and more. This provides them with vital, nutritious food options that can be difficult to come by during difficult seasons of life.

In fact, when surveyed, 71.1% of Care Center Friends reported that, when they used Grace Care Center, they chose to eat healthier foods. And 72.1% reported that they were able to choose fresh fruits and vegetables more often.

80.8% of Care Center Friends stated that using Grace Care Center has improved their overall health. And nearly 89% reported using the money they saved by using the Care Center to help pay for other necessities, such as bills, rent, and vehicle maintenance.

That’s what the Care Center is all about – helping Central Indiana families build stable, independent, and fulfilling lives, even during difficult seasons. 

How You Can Help

You can help battle food insecurity right here in Central Indiana!

Your donations to the Grace Care Center Foundation go right to work to stock the Choice Food Pantry with fresh, nutritious groceries. These gifts also help those facing a cycle of poverty break barriers through Care Center services like English classes, vehicle maintenance, and financial coaching. Grace Care Center also runs smoothly thanks to hundreds of volunteers each week – volunteering your time is a great way to give back and serve others.

Finally, you can advocate for the importance of food security with your friends and family! Share this article on social media, send a note to your coworker, or ask your employer to host our Mobile Pantry.  

No matter how you step forward, know that you are making an impact and improving the lives of your neighbors!