
Food Insecurity
Whether you’re getting ready to have your baby or already holding your newborn, you are doing one of the most important jobs in the world—taking care of yourself while growing and feeding your baby. But we know that getting enough healthy food can be hard sometimes. This guide will show you where to find support to make sure you and your baby have the food you need to grow strong and stay healthy.
What Is Food Insecurity?
Food insecurity means not having steady access to enough food for an active, healthy life. It can look like:
- Skipping meals to make food last
- Worrying about where your next meal will come from
- Eating low-cost, less nutritious foods because it’s all you can afford
These challenges are real, and many families face them. Reaching out for help is a brave and loving step for you and your baby.
Breastfeeding, Nutrition, and Food Security
Your nutrition needs increase during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Without enough healthy food, it can be harder to:
- Maintain your energy and health
- Make enough breast milk
- Support your baby’s growth and development
The good news? There are programs designed to make sure you and your baby thrive.
Food Assistance Resources
WIC – Women, Infants, and Children
- Monthly food benefits for pregnant/postpartum women, infants, and children up to age 5.
- Breastfeeding support, formula assistance, and nutrition education.
- Many WIC clinics also offer breast pumps and referrals to other services such as medical/dental and childcare resources in your community.
- Find your local WIC office and apply for benefits.
- Call the hunger hotline: 1-866-348-6479 (or call your state’s WIC hotline).
SNAP – Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program
- Helps low-income individuals and families buy groceries.
- Funds are loaded monthly onto an EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) card.
- Many farmers’ markets accept SNAP and double your dollars for fruits and veggies.
- Apply or learn more about SNAP benefits.
- Your state may have its own online benefits portal.
- Shop Simple is a free app that lets you enter your ZIP code to find local grocery stores and farmers markets that accept SNAP. It also offers easy, budget-friendly recipes to help you make the most of your benefits.
Food Pantries & Community Kitchens
- Local food banks offer free groceries, diapers, and baby formula.
- Community kitchens may provide hot meals in a safe, welcoming place.
- Find local food pantries through Feeding America.
- Or dial 2-1-1 for free, confidential help locating nearby services.
Free Meals for Kids at School
- If you have older children, they may qualify for free or reduced-price school meals.
- If you’re at or below current income eligibility guidelines, contact your child’s school to apply.
- Many areas also offer summer meal programs for kids and teens even when school is not in session.
Tips for Nourishing Yourself on a Budget
- Plan simple meals: Use affordable staples (like beans, oats, eggs, and frozen veggies).
- Shop smart: Use store-brand items, check weekly sales, and use coupons or SNAP benefits when available.
- Stretch your ingredients: Add lentils to soups, rice to stir-fries, or veggies to pasta to make meals go further.
- Cook once, eat twice: Make extra portions to freeze or enjoy the next day.
- Use community resources: Many food pantries and WIC offices offer recipes, shopping tips, and cooking classes.
- Stay hydrated: Water is essential during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
- Ask for help: Whether from a support group, a clinic, or a trusted friend.
Breastfeeding is one of the most powerful ways to protect your baby’s health and reduce their risk of food insecurity—now and in the future. Around the world, even during hard times, mothers are able to nourish their babies through breastfeeding. If you need help getting started or continuing, know that you’re not alone. Our Registered Dieticians, Lactation Consultants and supportive classes are here to guide you every step of the way on your birth and breastfeeding journey.
What If I Have Questions?
If you are interested in learning more, these Aeroflow classes expand on some of the topics discussed above:
- Bump to Baby Nutrition
- Nutrition and the Breastfeeding Mom
To register for these classes, log into your portal or click here.
Want More Info?
For a directory of Aeroflow’s other Care Guides offering information on pregnancy, baby care, and more, browse our comprehensive list of titles:
Our classes and accompanying materials are intended for general education purposes and should not replace medical evaluation or consultation. Please seek advice from your own healthcare providers for individualized recommendations.
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