Geographic variation in barriers to the usage of food assistance in Indiana

This qualitative study examines geographic differences in the provision of food assistance in Indiana. The specific focus is on barriers which may prevent those who are food insecure from accessing assistance. Directors (n = 28) of food pantries and soup kitchens in urban, suburban, and rural counties were interviewed about their experiences providing food assistance. Geographic variation was found in perceived barriers to accessing assistance, although similar barriers were reported across regions. Directors pointed to several common barriers, the most frequently mentioned were pride/stigma and geographic access/transportation. Understanding these barriers is an important first step in creating policy solutions to ensure those who are food insecure are able to access assistance.