The Potential for Building Support Networks to Enhance Food Availability Among Urban Low-Income Households in Khon Kaen Municipality, Khon Kaen Province

Abstract

This study aims to examine the food availability situation and assess the potential of urban low-income households to establish food availability support networks in Khon Kaen Municipality, Khon Kaen Province. Three communities along the railway in Khon Kaen Municipality were purposefully selected using qualitative research methods, focusing on phenomena that demonstrate the communities’ potential to address the issue of food security. The total number of key informants was 30. Content analysis and the triangulation method were employed to ensure coherence between the data. The study's findings indicate that urban low-income households require a greater understanding of nutrition to help meet their dietary needs. Inadequate income for daily sustenance necessitates adjustments that reduce the quantity and quality of food, leading to health issues and frequent illnesses. As a result, urban low-income households depend on natural food sources, self-produced food, and food provided through aid to reduce food costs. They received support from community leaders with networking skills and experience in developing skills and knowledge. This assistance led to the creation of support networks for food availability. These networks included internal community networks formed through informal relationships and external networks established by organizations and agencies authorized to promote and support urban low-income households. Therefore, policies should support the provision of nutrition and food consumption knowledge to urban low-income households. Additionally, safe and affordable food markets for urban low-income individuals should be established, resulting from collaborative networks across all sectors to ensure access to quality and safe food for low-income urban households.