Child Food Insecurity Tioga County, NY

2018



Food Insecurity- lack of access to adequate food.

-Rate of Food Insecure children in Tioga County- 21% (2,340)

-Food Insecurity not only has children feel the effects of hunger by a missed or meager meal, but manifests itself in other biopsychosocial outcomes, including health and education.

-Children that are food insecure are more likely to be sick, be sick longer, be hospitalized, have growth issues both cognitive and physical, and to have behavioral issues.

-52% of school age children in Tioga County are eligible for the Free and Reduced Lunch Program.  Of the 50%, less than 10% attended a summer meal site.

-Available assistance:  BackPack Program, Summer Food Service Program, Food Pantries and Soup Kitchens, SNAP, National School Lunch, and National School Breakfast Programs, WIC (women, infants and children).

-The Tioga County Anti-Hunger Task Force meets the 3^rd Wednesday of each month at Tioga Opportunities, Inc. Countryside Community Center, 9 Sheldon Guile Blvd., Owego, from 10:30AM-11:45AM.  The meeting is an open meeting and all are invited to attend.

Contact:   Nancy Eckstrom at Nancy.eckstrom@gmail.com.