Engaging communities in the planning process: Conducting formative research for a web-based food distribution platform in a post-disaster setting.

Abstract

As natural hazards amplify the persistence of food insecurity, the demand for evidence-informed interventions that increase resilience is needed. Developing a decentralized web-based platform to mobilize healthy food options in disaster-affected neighborhoods, designed to use real-time crowdsourced information, can help identify vulnerable populations and prioritize areas in need. A survey was administered using constructs from the Health Belief Model and Technology Accessibility Model, engaging Hillsborough County residents in the design thinking process to gauge community acceptance of a technology-based intervention during a large-scale disaster. Identifying barriers, wants, and needs of various population segments allows for more inclusive strategies for developing emergency management interventions. Results from the community survey validated the high likelihood of technology acceptance during disasters, with 90.9 percent of the respondents indicating that they would likely use a web-based food delivery service during disasters. Respondents had high levels of perceived self-efficacy and perceived ease of use with moderate levels of perceived usefulness and perceived threats. A majority of respondents (81.4 percent) agree that technology helps connect them to their community, with 83.6 percent agreeing that the internet would be useful for helping their community and 70.2 percent indicating they would feel comfortable ordering groceries online during a disaster. Whereas Hispanic survey respondents had higher levels of perceived threats; however, due to their perceived barriers were less likely to use the platform. By incorporating evidence-informed disaster management practices in the planning process, local governmental and nongovernmental organizations can develop more comprehensive plans and interventions to help communities prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters.