The Association of Family and Neighborhood Characteristics with Utilization of the Seattle Fresh Bucks Program, Fruit and Vegetable Consumption, and Food Security

Abstract

This dissertation evaluates heterogeneities in associations between the Fresh Bucksprogram in Seattle, Washington and program outcomes by household and neighborhood characteristics. Fresh Bucks provides $40 per month to lower-income households in Seattle for purchases of fruits and vegetables to increase consumption and improve rates of food security. This dissertation first examines heterogeneities in Fresh Bucks benefit utilization and changes to fruit and vegetable consumption and food security by family composition following program enrollment. Next, I measure associations between Fresh Bucks benefit utilization and neighborhood characteristics. Finally, I examine associations between changes to fruit and vegetable consumption and food security and neighborhood characteristics following program enrollment. Findings from this work may provide context to decision-makers seeking to increase equitable access to nutrition benefit programs like Fresh Bucks.