Hosted on September 2nd, 2026, the training was delivered by Jasmine Griffin, MA, LPC, Training Officer, Switchboard; and Aley Kent, Senior Technical Advisor for Food Security and Agriculture, IRC.
Webinar Overview
Food insecurity can affect many aspects of a newcomer’s well-being, influencing physical health, emotional wellness, family stability, and their ability to succeed at school, work, and in their communities. While many newcomers may qualify for food assistance and community supports, barriers such as transportation, language access, unfamiliar systems, stigma, and financial strain can limit consistent access to nutritious and culturally familiar food.
Drawing from current evidence and promising practices, this session shared practical tools for strengthening food security in a culturally responsive, trauma-informed way, including financial assistance programs, meal services, community gardens, and community-based partnerships. Learners explored strategies to promote newcomers’ dignity, choice, and trust when addressing their food-related needs.
Note: This webinar did not explore eligibility barriers to food assistance programs.
What I Will Learn
After watching this webinar recording, you will be able to:
- Describe how food insecurity impacts newcomer wellness, stability, and integration
- Explain evidence-informed and community-based approaches that support food security among newcomer populations
- Apply culturally responsive and trauma-informed strategies when supporting clients experiencing food insecurity
Who Will Benefit?
- Direct service staff who support clients with accessing affordable and nutritious food
- Supervisors who support direct service staff in food security programs
Level
- Introductory
