Lawrence Robinson was a Health and Food Justice Policy Intern from September 2023 to May 2024
The food we consume is a crucial determinant of health, as quality nutrition prevents and manages chronic diseases. However, 1 in 8 Texans experience food insecurity and rising rates of diet-related conditions. These data mirror the national average and contribute to the 117 million Americans who have at least one preventable chronic disease; the story is even more devastating for Texans of color. As food access plays a key role in public health and wellness, we must understand the root causes of food insecurity in order to promote healthy living. This report examines the current state of food insecurity in Texas while exploring how public health programming and policy can address these issues.