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Reporters and editors: Jess Carson will discuss the key findings of her analysis in a webinar Tuesday, May 19, 2020, at 10:45 a.m. EST. You are invited to .

DURHAM, N.H.鈥擥overnment, nonprofit, retail and volunteer emergency food system responses to the COVID-19 pandemic have not only been innovative but include new dissemination models as well as modifications to and expansions of existing programs, according to a by the Carsey School of Public Policy at the 91制片厂.

鈥淯nlike in prior economic downturns, meeting food needs is not limited to supplementing food purchasing power or ensuring sufficient charitable donations,鈥� said Jess Carson, research assistant professor with the Carsey School鈥檚 Vulnerable Families Research Program. 鈥淚n the pandemic context, it has also been key to alter food acquisition channels to comply with social distancing regulations and address access for those at elevated risk of infection.鈥�

Carson noted that emergency food system responses have focused on enhancing accessibility, particularly for the elderly, and reducing the need for in-person contact. In particular, drive-through pickup is an especially prevalent modification as well higher-volume distributions, which reduces frequency of contact.

鈥淎s the pandemic continues to affect families鈥� economic well-being, food access is likely to remain an important challenge,鈥� she said. 鈥淚n addition to adjustments to existing programs, it will be important for states to utilize allowed flexibility in SNAP administration and to consider higher benefit levels, as well as increase federal allocations for other nutrition programs.鈥�

The Carsey School of Public Policy conducts research, leadership development, and engaged scholarship relevant to public policy. They address pressing challenges, striving for innovative, responsive, and equitable solutions at all levels of government and in the for-profit and nonprofit sectors.