Reducing Food Stigma Through Community-Centered Pantry Practices

• Alessandra Broussard, Health Behavior Science, University of Delaware

• Allison Karpyn, Human Development and Family Sciences, University of Delaware

Food insecurity is a widespread and increasing issue in the United States. Although food pantries play an integral role in alleviating food insecurity and offering critical nutritional support, research suggests they may also unintentionally perpetuate stigma. Stigma is a social process manifested through stereotyping, labeling, discrimination and status loss. In response, many pantries are implementing stigma-reduction strategies; however, little is known about how these efforts are experienced or enacted at the organizational level. The purpose of this qualitative study was to understand how food pantry staff work to reduce stigma and promote dignity for those seeking assistance. This study included 12 semi-structured interviews with food pantry staff in Pennsylvania and Delaware. Data were analyzed using a hybrid inductive and deductive thematic analysis approach.  Six major themes emerged as strategies for fostering affirming and empowering client experiences: 1) client personalization, 2) positive staff interaction, 3) representative volunteers, 4) positive atmosphere, 5) language reframing, and 6) community outreach. These findings offer valuable insights into the ways in which organizations can implement intentional, human-centered practices and transform pantries into environments that promote dignity, empowerment, and connection. Prioritizing empathy and personalization over efficiency may offer a promising path for reducing stigma in emergency food programs.