UConn study shows food insecurity impacts over 560,000 Connecticut residents

Connecticut Foodshare photo — Photo via Connecticut Foodshare

A new report published by Connecticut Foodshare and the Health Equity Lab for the People at the University of Connecticut shows that food pantry guests across the state rely heavily on food assistance programs while navigating significant financial pressures. Researchers conducted surveys with 524 food pantry guests across 17 locations between March and July 2025 to track guest experiences and food access patterns.

The study found that 76% of surveyed food pantry guests had to choose between purchasing food and paying for other essential living costs over the past year. The most common spending tradeoffs reported by guests included paying for housing at 33%, utilities at 32%, and transportation at 27% instead of food.

Data from the report indicates that 82% of pantry guests received at least a quarter of their household groceries from food assistance programs over a three-month period. Additionally, 65% of respondents visit a food pantry at least a few times per month, while 26% reported using a food pantry for six months or less.

Demographic findings show that 55% of surveyed households include children, 38% of guests are seniors aged 60 and older, and 21% report that English is not their primary language. In terms of employment status among guests, 34% are currently working, 22% are retired, and 13% are disabled and unable to work.

Connecticut Foodshare operates as the statewide food bank affiliated with Feeding America, distributing food through more than 450 agency partners and 100 mobile food pantry sites. The study was conducted in partnership with UConn assistant professor Dr. Kristen Cooksey Stowers to help guide organizational strategies addressing food access barriers and nutrition security.

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UConn study shows food insecurity impacts over 560,000 Connecticut residents