Physical Activity Among Low-Income Food Pantry Patrons: Improving the Role of a Rural Food Pantry

Obesity and obesity-related health problems are of growing concern in the United States, particularly among low-income and minority groups. Food pantries have been utilized to reduce barriers to healthy eating; however, challenges still exist with providing physical activity (PA) services. A needs assessment was conducted among rural food-pantry patrons to determine PA behaviors, knowledge, self-efficacy, and perceived barriers to PA. Data were used to infer the health education needs and services of food pantry patrons. Fifty percent of participants indicated that providing fitness classes and PA education materials could help them overcome barriers such as time, money, and childcare.