Rural Community Member Adaptations to a Recent Food Desert

Abstract

Food deserts are urban neighborhoods or rural towns without ready access to fresh, healthy, and affordable food. Large food corporations are causing food deserts in rural towns by underpricing local grocery stores, causing them to close. PURPOSE: Discover how rural community members adapted to a recent food desert caused by the closing of their only grocery store. METHODS: Alderson, WV (population 1,184) lost its only grocery store December 31, 2014, causing a food desert. 155 households (30%) were surveyed as to how they adapted to the new food desert. Behaviors were compared before and after the grocery store closing. Statistical analyses included t-tests for mean group comparisons, and Pearson correlations. RESULTS: 44% of households used the food pantry, and 23% used SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program). 43% of families reported their food pantry use increased. No difference (p=0.17) in frequency of driving more than 10 miles to buy food. No difference (p=0.85) in local restaurant use. 21% increase in the number of family gardens. Correlation coefficients were low between local food use and distant food use (range, r=0.88 to r=0.26). The new food desert caused families to ask restaurants to sell them fresh produce and dairy. CONCLUSION: Although a new food desert caused hardships for a rural community, it did not affect their eating at local restaurants or traveling long distances to purchase food.