COVID-19 and food insecurity in a vulnerable rural state

OBJECTIVE: This study explored variations in food insecurity across sociodemographic groups and changes specific to the COVID-19 pandemic, including income loss, stimulus check receipt, and changes in household size. DESIGN: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted using a 2-item food insecurity screener. COVID-19 related factors and sociodemographic data were collected. SETTING: Data were collected in Arkansas, United States, during July and August 2020. PARTICIPANTS: A sample of 1205 adults was recruited using ARresearch, a volunteer research registry. Participants were over the age of 18 and living, working, or receiving health care in Arkansas. RESULTS: The prevalence of food insecurity was 24.9% during the COVID-19 pandemic. Food insecurity was elevated even after the majority of respondents received a stimulus check. Chi-square and t-tests revealed that food insecurity was more prevalent among those who are younger, Black, Hispanic/Latinx, lower-income, less educated, and living in households with children. Multivariate logistic regression revealed that odds of food insecurity were greater for individuals who reported income loss due to the pandemic (OR = 3.29; p < .001), Black respondents (OR = 2.06, p = .014), Hispanic respondents (OR = 3.34, p = .001), those earning less than $25,000 annually (OR = 4.92; p < .001) or between $25,000 to $49,999 (OR = 2.04; p = .023), respondents with a high school degree or less (OR = 4.21; p < .001) or some college (OR = 2.55; p < .001), and those living in households with children (OR = 1.62; p = .021). Odds of food insecurity were lower for those who had received a stimulus check (OR = 0.60; p = .026). CONCLUSION: Food insecurity prevalence was high in Arkansas in July and August 2020. The risk of food insecurity was uneven across sociodemographic groups. Several factors related to the COVID-19 pandemic were indicators for increased risk of food insecurity. Interventions to address food insecurity that recognize social factors unique to the pandemic are needed to reduce levels of food insecurity.