617 surveys completed by partners, neighbors as part of comprehensive study
FARGO, N.D. – For the first time since 2018, the Great Plains Food Bank has completed a comprehensive study of its food insecure clients (neighbors) along with its network of partner food pantries and meal sites (partners) in an effort to better understand the needs and challenges they are currently facing to better prepare the organization for the future. A total of 617 surveys were completed at 68 different sites across 45 counties as a part of Hunger on the Plains 2023. These results will help guide the Great Plains Food Bank’s work to reduce food insecurity rates to five percent by 2030.
The Hunger on the Plains 2023 survey consisted of as many as 73 questions surrounding household makeup, demographics, financial status, experience utilizing the charitable feeding network and barriers to access. Its results will help the Great Plains Food Bank center its efforts on equity, building stronger communities and effect lasting change for neighbors facing hunger. It is the first comprehensive study of its partners and neighbors the organization has conducted since Hunger in North Dakota 2018.
“We believe in a future where no one has to choose between paying for food and other bills, children are prepared to learn with full bellies, and older adults have a wholesome meal and the care that supports their health,” Great Plains Food Bank CEO Melissa Sobolik said. “Together with our partners, we’re working hard to ensure that no one worries where their next meal is coming from.”
Impactful findings from Hunger on the Plains 2023
- Native American, American Indian and Alaska Native neighbors face hunger at seven times the rate of other communities.
- 37 percent of clients served by the Great Plains Food Bank are children, 17 percent are older adults, 14 percent are Veterans and 13 percent are single caregivers.
- 75 percent of neighbors reported experiencing at least one chronic health condition.
- 41 percent of neighbors attended college, trade school or hold an advanced degree.
- One in three neighbors do not have access to a working vehicle.
- 54 percent of partners are volunteer-led and volunteers served 142,080 hours helping at agencies in the last year.
Great Plains Food Bank CEO Melissa Sobolik delivers remarks surrounding Hunger on the Plains 2023 at a community meeting at United Way Cass Clay in Fargo on March 14, 2023.