Addressing Food Pantry Capacity to Offer Medically Tailored Groceries for Food Insecure Individuals with Chronic Disease in Rural South Carolina

Author

• Anna G. Taylor, Clemson UniversityFollow

Date of Award

8-2026

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Food, Nutrition, and Culinary Science

Committee Chair/Advisor

Dr. Hannah K Wilson

Committee Member

Dr. Amanda N Stover

Committee Member

Dr. Vivian Haley-Zitlin

Abstract

This study examines the feasibility of implementing medically tailored grocery (MTG) programs within rural food pantries in South Carolina to better serve food-insecure individuals living with chronic diseases. Using a mixed-methods design, the study aimed to assess current pantry capacity, identify barriers and facilitators to MTG implementation, and evaluate strategies to strengthen MTG delivery.

The intervention was guided by three implementation science frameworks: the Six-Step Knowledge Sharing Model, the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR), and the RE-AIM evaluation framework. Data collection occurred in two phases. In Phase 1, statewide focus groups, capacity surveys, and inventory assessments were conducted to understand existing resources, practices, and needs across rural food pantries. Findings from this phase informed the development of a training intervention to be delivered alongside Extension supports.

In Phase 2, we piloted the Food Pantry Chronic Disease Training intervention, which included nutrition-focused training videos for pantry staff and volunteers, an accompanying toolkit, and training for Clemson Extension staff. These components were designed to increase knowledge and awareness of chronic disease management and its connection to nutrition among pantry and Extension staff, thereby supporting more informed decision-making related to food selection and distribution. Ongoing evaluation included pre-, post-, and 4 week follow-up training data collection to assess changes in organizational capacity-related measures and implementation outcomes. Both quantitative (surveys) and qualitative (Food Pantry Focus Groups and Extension Professional Interviews) data were analyzed to evaluate feasibility, acceptability, and potential for sustainability.

Results provide insight into the challenges and opportunities associated with integrating medically tailored and supportive grocery programs into the charitable food system. The study identifies key factors that influence successful implementation and offers practical recommendations for scaling and sustaining MTG delivery in rural settings. These findings contribute to broader efforts to address food insecurity and improve chronic disease management through community-based food assistance programs.

Recommended Citation

Taylor, Anna G., "Addressing Food Pantry Capacity to Offer Medically Tailored Groceries for Food Insecure Individuals with Chronic Disease in Rural South Carolina" (2026). All Theses. 4843.
https://open.clemson.edu/all_theses/4843