Approximately 20% of Americans with diabetes are food insecure and carry the brunt of its impact daily. Additionally, the risk for type 2 diabetes is increased twofold for those with severe food insecurity when compared to those who are food secure. The American Diabetes Association® (ADA), with the support of community-based organizations and Baxter International Foundation, works to address nutrition insecurity in local communities. By providing healthy, fresh food options and diabetes education, as well as addressing local issues that increase risks of food insecurity, we are meeting the needs of communities in food deserts and those who lack transportation where they live. The goal? To enhance the quality of life for people at risk for or impacted by diabetes.
Addressing Food Insecurity
Why are we here?
- More than 38 million Americans have diabetes (11.6% of the U.S. population).
- Approximately 20% of Americans with diabetes are food insecure, a rate twice as high as that of the general population.
- 10.2% of U.S. households (13.5 million households) in 2021 were food insecure.
- People with severe food insecurity are at 2x higher risk for type 2 diabetes.
- 72% of the Southside Chicago community are Black (non-Hispanic) who often have higher rates of diabetes.
- 30-year life expectancy gap across Chicago’s most segregated areas, like the Southside
Southside Chicago Pilot
The Black community in the most segregated areas of Chicago, like Southside, has a 30-year life expectancy gap, higher diabetes prevalence, and increased death rates. In partnership with community partners, the ADA is working to improve access to nutritious foods, provide diabetes management education, and promote healthy living in this community.
Dion’s Chicago Dream Deliveries
With Dion’s Chicago Dream, the ADA is targeting communities in food deserts on the Southside of Chicago by providing cost-free, fresh produce deliveries to under-resourced communities. The program seeks to address challenges for individuals at risk for or living with diabetes, particularly those residents with low incomes and limited transportation options. We started delivering fresh produce to 150 households weekly. With time, the impact has increased by over 500%. Now, the program serves more than 1,000 households weekly.
Dion's Chicago Dream Deliveries Video Testimonials
Champlified
In partnership with Champlified, the ADA conducted interactive workshops and seminars in under-resourced communities to raise awareness about diabetes and offer free screenings. Attendees participated in community gardening activities and learned how to plant their own gardens. Many left with all the materials they needed to grow their own fresh fruits and vegetables at home.
More Resources
Food Insecurity and Diabetes
The lack of access to healthy food is a large problem in the U.S.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
Putting healthy food within reach for those in need.
Give Today and Change lives!
With your support, the American Diabetes Association® can continue our lifesaving work to make breakthroughs in research and provide people with the resources they need to fight diabetes.