Louisiana ranks 3rd highest in the nation for food scarcity

Louisiana is ranked highly in a new list … unfortunately, the state ranks third highest for adults facing food security nationwide according to the US Department of Agriculture. Food insecurity is defined as when one or more person in the household cannot afford access to healthy, nutritious foods. Currently, 13% of Louisiana Households fall into that category.

Michael Williamson is CEO of United Way of Southeast Louisiana and says it's a persistent (and growing) problem in the region that could have a domino effect of consequences. "Families are struggling. It's a significant issue for folks who have children in their homes. We probably don't talk about it enough: the importance of our children having access to healthy and nutritious foods. It supports learning and brain development," Williamson emphasizes.

Food insecurity can also have a wide array of impacts for those facing the issue long-term. "Food insecurity is directly linked to poor health outcomes, and we all know the cost of that. If you have to go to an urgent care center or the emergency room because you're having a medical issue and don't have a primary care physician ... often times, those things are driven by food insecurity," Williamson explains.

The impacts of dealing with persistent food insecurity don't end with the physical effects. Williamson says an often overlooked effect of struggling to find healthy food options can have mental health consequences as well. "You think about stress and the mental health challenges that come along because folks are just trying to figure out how to put food on their table. So, food insecurity is linked to so many other health outcomes for families as well," he went on to note.

Williamson is also quick to point out that many families are working hard to make ends meet, but are simply unable to keep up with the rising cost of basic needs. "Many are working hard, but they're just one crisis away from financial peril and often times the things that have to get cut are healthy, nutritious foods," he went on to say.

Those facing food insecurity are encouraged to dial 211 where operators will direct them to local food banks. United Way's website can also direct users to additional resources.