The Capacity Building Experience of Women Engaged in Determining the Cost and Affordability of Healthy Food in Nova Scotia, Canada

Abstract

This article describes capacity building processes and outcomes among women engaged in participatory research to assess the cost and affordability of a nutritious diet. Thematic analysis of in-depth interviews with 12 women, affiliated with federally funded family resource centers, revealed the following themes: participation of those experiencing food insecurity; development of leadership skills; linking individuals/groups working on common goals; identifying problems and critically assessing root causes underlying food insecurity; and increased organizational ownership over/mobilization of resources supporting participation. Findings suggest that participants’ experiences were empowering and have led to prolonged engagement in research and action to build food security.

KEYWORDS:

• food access
• food insecurity
• food security
• capacity building
• participatory action research
• food costing
• Nova Scotia
• family resource centers

Additional information

Funding

This study was supported by a Student Research Award from the Nova Scotia Health Research Foundation and Population Health Fund, Health Canada Atlantic Region.