O23 Community Stakeholders Perspectives on Food Security of Families with Children Ages 0 to 3 Years Before and During COVID-19

Children living in food-insecure households have poorer overall health than children in food-secure households. While emergency food and nutrition assistance programs provide supplemental food and education resources to eligible families, they cannot consistently provide adequate age-appropriate food for young children. Since the onset of COVID-19, families have experienced higher food insecurity rates, impacting access to nutritious food items for young children.To explore community stakeholders’ perceptions about obtaining nutritious and age-appropriate foods for children ages 0-3 years prior and as a result of COVID-19.Stakeholders (n = 15) with a vested interest or currently working with families with infants or toddlers in Florida participated in a 60-minute interview via Zoom by trained researchers using a semi-structured script.The PRECEDE component of the PRECEDE-PROCEED model was used to inform the interview questions. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and coded by 2 researchers using an inductive approach.Before COVID-19, stakeholders perceived that families of infants and toddlers were not aware of available resources related to food security in the community. Stakeholders’ stated resources such as baby foods and nutrition education were limited. Since COVID-19, resources related to food security have become even more restricted due to the increased demand, lack of transportation, and new safety protocols (ie, limited hours, social distancing, etc.). Moreover, the stigma associated with applying for supplemental assistance was noted as a barrier to food security prior to and as a result of COVID-19. Stakeholders suggested these families have become more aware of supplemental assistance eligibility requirements and other available opportunities through social media and referrals since COVID-19.Age-appropriate foods and additional resources are needed in non-stigmatized ways for food-insecure families with young children, especially as a result of COVID-19. Identifying risk factors associated with food insecurity will help determine future interventions for effective ways to safeguard young children's health and well-being.None.