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Field Reports

Opportunities to Strengthen Nutrition Programs in DC to Address Senior Food Insecurity

Fleurian Filkins, Emerson Fellow
Published 2021-2022

Washington, D.C.

The District of Columbia has repeatedly had the highest rate of senior food insecurity among U.S. states, despite having many nutrition programs that seniors can access. This report evaluates the barriers for seniors to access nutrition program which perpetuate this trend. After presenting background information on senior food insecurity and nutrition programs in D.C., this report summarizes findings from interviews with nutrition program staff and food insecure seniors. The report concludes with recommendations focused on leveraging government-funded nutrition programs to increase senior food security in D.C.

Download "Opportunities to Strengthen Nutrition Programs in DC to Address Senior Food Insecurity"

Publication tags: Field Reports - Domestic Federal Nutrition Programs, Food Access

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Fleurian Filkins

Emerson Fellow

Fleurian Filkins grew up near Keuka Lake in New York state, before transferring to Finger Lakes Community College to finish high school and earn associate degrees in Psychology and Liberal Arts & Sciences. During their time at community college, they engaged in queer community building and environmental advocacy, with a focus on gardening. Upon transferring to SUNY Geneseo to pursue a B.A. in Psychology, they became heavily involved in campus sustainability, serving as an Ecological Representative, a co-chair of Food Security Advocates, and a member of the President's Commission on Sustainability. In these positions, they wrote a policy proposal to put a food pantry on campus, co-developed a student-run food pantry delivery program, and obtained a grant to fund the creation of an indoor vertical garden.

Read more about Fleurian Filkins