2026-05-23T17:51:12Zhttps://keep.lib.asu.edu/oai/request

oai:keep.lib.asu.edu:node-2026132025-10-27T19:51:56Zoai_pmh:alloai_pmh:repo_items

202613 https://hdl.handle.net/2286/R.2.N.202613 http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/ http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0 2025-12 32 pages LeBlanc, Katelyn McCoy, Maureen Martinelli, Sarah Barrett, The Honors College Department of Management and Entrepreneurship Food insecurity remains a persistent challenge among college students, often impacting academic performance and overall well-being. The Pitchfork Pantry, a student-led nonprofit at Arizona State University, aims to reduce food insecurity by providing free food and essential items to students. However, before Fall 2024, the pantry operated on an open-attendance model that often resulted in long lines, unpredictable attendance, and food shortages. This study sought to develop, implement, and evaluate a data-based food distribution system that enhances both equity and efficiency in service delivery. Using a point-based research survey, the study assessed demographic, financial, and socioeconomic factors associated with food insecurity to allocate pantry visits according to need. Survey responses from students during the Spring 2025 semester informed the allocation system, which assigned distribution frequency on a tiered basis. Data analysis revealed that the new system prioritized students with higher levels of need and reduced excess waste—saving the pantry over $7,500 in one semester. Post-survey feedback and student testimonies indicated that the system was perceived as fair, efficient, and less stigmatizing. Findings suggest that data-driven allocation models can improve food distribution fairness, reduce waste, and enhance operational sustainability in campus food pantries. Continued refinement of the system and targeted outreach to underrepresented student populations may further strengthen the Pitchfork Pantry’s impact in addressing college food insecurity. Food Insecurity Process Improvement Pitchfork Pantry Toward Equity and Efficiency: Developing a Data-Based System for Food Distribution at Pitchfork Pantry