Choice Matters: Food Access with Dignity

Meaningful food access goes beyond meeting basic calorie needs; it involves preserving individual choice, cultural food preferences, and personal dignity. Research shows that when people are able to select their own foods, they are more likely to choose nutritious items that align with their cultural traditions and household priorities. Choice-based food systems support healthier eating patterns, increase satisfaction, and reduce stigma associated with receiving assistance.

Customers shop with Virginia Fresh Match tokens at the Spotsylvania Farmers Market

Food access programs like Virginia Fresh Match center this approach by prioritizing customer choice and autonomy. Instead of receiving pre-selected or donated food, participants shop as customers, making informed decisions about what to buy and when to shop. This model reflects respect for personal choice and recognizes the diverse food needs across Virginia communities.

Despite the importance of food choice, that freedom is increasingly threatened by rising food costs. As grocery prices climb, families face growing financial strain and shrinking options at the checkout line due to affordability.

Food and grocery price trends highlight the urgency of this issue:

• Over the past five years, food prices have risen 28 percent

• Grocery prices in the United States are approximately 2.7 percent higher in 2025 compared to the previous year.

• Virginia’s food insecurity rate is 12.1%, which means 1 in 8 Virginians do not always have enough money or food to make ends meet

  
  

Customer shops for local produce at the Market at PPL

As costs rise, families often respond by reducing meal sizes, purchasing lower-quality food, or forgoing fresh produce altogether, with fresh fruits and vegetables frequently counted among the first items cut from grocery budgets.

This holiday season, many families across Virginia are stretching already limited budgets to cover everyday necessities while preparing traditional meals and celebrations. During times like these, protecting family agency and ensuring households can purchase the foods that are meaningful to them is more important than ever.

This holiday season, consider giving the gift of both nutritious food and choice by sharing this message or making a contribution to Virginia Fresh Match. Together, we can help put healthy food on the table for every Virginia family.