Two examples of food insecurity that is identified in the movie are when families do not have sufficient funds to provide healthy foods. The family in Collbran did not know if they could eat the next meal. They often go hungry and their “stomachs would growl” They try to stretch the food they have and probably alter recipes so that more quantities can be made. They also asked friends for some food. The church that they attend serves food every Wednesday so they attend to get food. They were successful because they were able to get through the weeks with some foods. Another example is Ree from Mississippi was impoverished. She did not know where her next meal will come from because her food stamps only cover 3 weeks per month. So for the last week, she struggles to put food on the table.
The demographics are usually within poverty-stricken communities and families. The trend is that people that do not have funds will often have problems acquiring the next meal. Also, most people shown in the film was African American. They are more susceptible to food insecurity because of the historical past in America. African Americans have faced slavery in the States. This caused them to have a “late start” and they will have financial problems which result in fewer funds towards buying food.
My personal reaction is that it is upsetting because not only are the adults affected, the kids are affected as well. Their school life is disrupted, their growth is affected negatively, and they have to worry about if they can eat the next meal. I knew about the food insecurities in East Hastings, Vancouver. I used to volunteer at a homeless shelter and there are many that do not know where their meals will come from. I was surprised that 1 for every 2 children had to depend on federal assistance for food.
I think that if I was a politician, I would bring bills to the parliament which allow hunger stricken families to acquire food. Policies that increase funds towards food stamps will allow people to be fed, with more healthy foods, which allows a healthier diet for people on food stamps. Not only is the quantity important, but also the quality of the food and nutrients in the food is important as well. By empowering people on federal aid to eat better, they will function better and not worry about how they will get their next meal.
Great responses, John!