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Health Services

Food Access Resources

Food Insecurity

Food insecurity means limited or uncertain access to adequate food. This is according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Hunger may be a consequence of food insecurity.  

Food insecurity can negatively affect:

  • Physical and mental health of children. 
  • Physical and mental health of adults.
  • Readiness of service members.

Prolonged, involuntary lack of food may result in the following:

  • Discomfort
  • Pain
  • Potential illness
  • Weakness 

Food insecurity is a social determinant of health. It has the potential to impact patient and family:

  • Well-being
  • Health
  • Growth
  • Healing
  • Ability to adhere to treatment goals
  • Child development
  • Stress

Resources For Food Insecurity

There are several resources to help you and your children grow. For nutritional information for pregnant women and young children, visit our Pregnancy and Resources Page.

Food insecurity is complex. It can be caused by many factors. Are you struggling to afford food or plan affordable meals? You can check out the resources below. For local resources please download the local food access resources by clicking here to download the PDF.
 

Resource Purpose
Women, Infants, and Children Program

WIC is a special supplemental nutritional program for pregnant women and families with children 5 years and younger. 
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program SNAP provides financial help for households to purchase food. It has info on whether you can qualify. It also has info specific to your state. Call 1-800-221-5689.

 
The United States Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service

The USDA has a wealth of nutrition information. This includes nutrition programs, recipes, and guidelines. Visit the USDA to learn more.

The School Lunch Program gives children access to nutritious meals. This supports their learning and growth. Visit the USDA to learn more.             
The USDA's MyPlate MyPlate has basic nutrition info, budget friendly recipes, and tools for health goals. 
Military OneSource

Military OneSource has many resources to help combat food insecurity. This supports military member and family readiness. 

Looking for a Family Readiness Center? Military OneSource can help you find it and supporting local resources at an installation near you. 
US Department of Veterans Affairs' Food and Security Office The VA provides information to help you with nutritious, affordable, and culturally appropriate food.         

Contact Us

Phone

Front Desk: 253-968-0547, Option 2
Puget Sound Military Appointment Center: 800-404-4506

Hours

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday
7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Wednesday
9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Closed daily, noon-1 p.m.
Closed on federal holidays and select training holidays

Location

First Floor, Hospital Tower
9040 Jackson Ave.
Joint Base Lewis-McChord, WA 98431

Don’t forget to keep your family’s information up to date in DEERS!