Access to safe and nutritious food is essential for everyone’s wellbeing. A lack of access to safe and healthy food has especially serious implications for young people. The infographic below, based on this chapter in the book Youth Homelessness in Canada: Implications for Policy and Practice, looks at the link between community food assistance programs and nutritional vulnerability for homeless youth.

In the study, 96% of homeless youth interviewed did not have access to enough food over the past month. Shortages in essential nutrients were reported by half of all homeless youth; this includes magnesium, zinc, vitamin A and vitamin C. Homeless youth were also found to be consuming fruits, vegetables and dairy products in quantities far below what's recommended for their age group. Poor nutrition, which the vast majority of homeless youth suffer from, significantly increases the likelihood of infection and is also a cause of impaired functioning.  When we consider what could come of youth not having access to the basics of a healthy diet, accessibility to healthy food can considered a preventative healthcare measure. In both the short and long-term, health problems that arise from poor nutrition are likely to place a burden on Canada's healthcare system. Investing in nutritious community food assistance programs now is one way of avoiding future healthcare costs.

88% of homeless youth in the study reported using a charitable meal program over the span of a week. When we take a closer look at the nature of these programs, we notice a lack of programs directed specifically at youth. Of the 517 agencies surveyed in Canada, only 19 had food assistance programs that were targeted to the needs of homeless youth. That's less than four percent!

The study also found that on weekends, food options were very limited. When food was unavailable, youth had to find alternate ways to get money for food, including panhandling. Current food assistance services clearly fall short and only partially meet the needs of youth. 75% of youth purchased some of the food that they consumed in a day. Purchases can be attributed to being unable to get adequate food through programs, dissatisfaction with available food options or a combination of these factors. Homeless youth expressed their appreciation for programs that offer food options and the opportunity to use cooking facilities to prepare their own meals. An essential component of any changes to existing models needs to be feedback like this, taken directly from homeless youth. There need to be opportunities for youth to provide feedback about their experience with food assistance programs. They, more than anyone else, are aware of the challenges they face with food accessibility.

Research that has been conducted into this issue doesn't provide a very sunny picture of the services available to youth. However, it informs us of what youth are saying about their current options, and the direction that community food assistance programs can take in the future. Access to a healthy diet is one step towards ensuring they can take full advantage of their youth, and any opportunities that come their way.

Homeless Youth, Nutritional Vulnerability, and Community Food Assistance Programs info graphic based on chapter 8 of the Youth Homelessness book.
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