Management of food insecurity in the COVID-19 pandemic: a model of sustainable community development

Abstract

© 2020 Mahidol University. The COVID-19 pandemic has a severe and immediate impact on unemployment and reduced household income, resulting in global food insecurity. Women play a major role as household food providers who manage food insecurity in Thai community. In this qualitative study researchers aimed to understand how communities engage in management of food insecurity resulting from COVID-19. Participants included 12 female food providers who were community volunteers, four community leaders, and four health providers. Focus group interviews were conducted. Data were analyzed using content analysis. We explain community engagement to manage food insecurity through strategies including connecting through empathy, community empowerment, and engaging for sustainability. We present findings to illustrate how women’s groups may work through a public-private partnership to achieve sustainable food security.