O39 Validating the Campus Food Aid Self-Assessment Tool (C-FAST)

Abstract

Background Recent studies have brought attention to college student food insecurity (FI), which is estimated to affect over 30% of students. While research to determine FI prevalence is growing, little research is being conducted on best practices to address student FI. As more campuses seek to address FI, resources are needed to bridge the gap between measuring FI prevalence and identifying appropriate responses. Objective This study aimed to validate the Campus Food Aid Self-assessment Tool (C-FAST). C-FAST is a survey-based tool, designed to gauge college campus performance in 6 dimensions associated with student FI: student services and supports; involvement; advocacy; campus culture and awareness; education and training; and research, scholarship, and creative works. Study Design, Setting, Participants Researchers conducted expert panel review and cognitive interviewing. Five expert reviewers evaluated the tool and provided feedback. Researchers then partnered with 10 four-year colleges and universities in Alabama to facilitate completion of C-FAST by campus representatives. Measurable Outcome/Analysis Institutions completed C-FAST and provided feedback on the tool. C-FAST submissions were evaluated to identify areas of strength and opportunities for growth for each campus then aggregated to reflect the state of FI resources and culture at Alabama institutions. Results Survey and interview feedback support the validation of C-FAST. Aggregated C-FAST results and follow-up interview themes will be presented, describing the validity of C-FAST along with a comprehensive overview of campus responses to student FI in Alabama. Conclusion This study supports validation of C-FAST as a tool for campuses to assess culture and resources relating to FI and provides statewide data on Alabama campus FI responses. Next steps include piloting C-FAST with additional campuses across the United States and validating the tool for use among 2-year institutions, so it can be used to identify appropriate campus responses to FI across a variety of campus contexts. Funding ECMC Foundation.