The Food Ed Hub conducted a survey to assess the impact of the COVID-19 epidemic on NYC-based food and nutrition education organizations and their communities. We collected data from March 31 through April 9, 2020; 42 organizations responded. These organizations serve all five boroughs of New York and consist primarily of non-profit organizations.

Here are our key findings:

  • The communities that food and nutrition education organizations serve are suffering from income loss, increased food insecurity, and increased anxiety and stress.
  • The COVID-19 epidemic has significantly impaired the financial health of these organizations, with anticipated losses over $1 million for some.
  • Food and nutrition education organizations continue to support the most vulnerable communities in New York City, providing meals, delivering groceries, communicating about food assistance, and offering virtual education.
  • Ensuring these organizations are financially viable is essential to protect New York’s most susceptible communities against the threat of food insecurity and underlying diet-related disease.

For full survey results and figures, download the data brief:

Data Brief: FNE Organizations COVID 19 Survey Results

“I hope we are able to survive the impact of this virus, both physically, as we are out in the front lines directly feeding our community during this crisis, and fiscally. The communities we serve and champion for are the most affected by the disproportionate lack of access to the most fundamental social determinants of health:  healthcare, education, fresh food, economic stability, a safe neighborhood/environment. The arrival of COVID-19 is no different and exacerbates all of those factors.” 

- Survey Respondent