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Abstract

Increases in the cost of living, low wages, and limited access to affordable food are among the barriers that contribute to food insecurity, impacting 30-40% of University of British Columbia (UBC) students (UBC Food Hub, 2021). Moreover, the number of clients at the Alma Mater Society (AMS) Food Bank continues to increase each year. In 2023, the AMS Food Bank served over 14,559 students and their dependents-- a 122% increase in attendees in 2023 compared to the previous year (AMS Food Bank, 2024). While food banks provide temporary relief, they do not address the systemic financial and policy-related factors contributing to this issue. With the goal of reducing the number of AMS Food Bank clients, the purpose of this study is to first understand the root causes of food insecurity among UBC students. This study aims to identify key themes and policies that impact food insecurity through three objectives: (1) analyze UBC student food insecurity through factors including financial status and demographics, (2) examine current policies and shortcomings in their effectiveness and equity, and (3) develop a strategy to address the underlying cause of food insecurity in students. Using survey based research methods, we will analyze data from a proprietary survey, AMS Food Bank data surveys, and a site visit to the AMS Food Bank. This project will utilize community-based action research (CBAR), in which community members will be involved throughout the project to help devise deliverables. This ensures that stakeholders can contribute to developing actionable solutions that help the community. Collecting client input through primary and secondary data will gather a comprehensive data set that encapsulates the experiences of our target population, assisting us in better understanding the barriers and resources related to food accessibility. Furthermore, it will assist in examining limitations and financial aid policies that disproportionately influence student food access. Our findings will be used to create a deliverable that can be used by the AMS Food Bank to inform policy recommendations and actionable support strategies, such as expanding financial aid, reducing reliance on food banks, and driving systemic change. With the research findings, a strategy that addresses the root causes of student food insecurity will be developed. By identifying the root causes of food insecurity in UBC students, and proposing more sustainable solutions, this research can serve as a precedent in defining and remedying the symptoms and causes of food insecurity. This ensures that students can focus on their academic success without barriers against accessible food. Disclaimer: “UBC SEEDS provides students with the opportunity to share the findings of their studies, as well as their opinions, conclusions and recommendations with the UBC community. The reader should bear in mind that this is a student project/report and is not an official document of UBC. Furthermore readers should bear in mind that these reports may not reflect the current status of activities at UBC. We urge you to contact the research persons mentioned in a report or the SEEDS Coordinator about the current status of the subject matter of a project/report.”