Veggie Vouchers for Diet Improvement

Recruiting in Palo Alto (17 mi)

Age: < 18

Sex: Any

Travel: May Be Covered

Time Reimbursement: Varies

Trial Phase: Phase 1

Recruiting

Sponsor: University of South Carolina

No Placebo Group

Trial Summary

What is the purpose of this trial?

Investigator will test an intervention to increase use of a fruit and vegetable incentive program in South Carolina for families in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) experiencing food insecurity. Caregivers are randomized to an intervention or an education-only, wait-list control group. The investigators hypothesize the intervention will improve diet-related outcomes, above and beyond the education-only wait-list control.

Research Team

Eligibility Criteria

This trial is for caregivers in South Carolina who are part of the SNAP program and struggle with food insecurity. It's not clear what specific exclusions apply, so potentially any SNAP participant facing these challenges could be eligible.

Inclusion Criteria

I am over 18 and the main caregiver.

Screens positive for food insecurity

Speaks English

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Exclusion Criteria

Anticipate no longer being enrolled in SNAP during the study duration

Recent use of the SNAP fruit and vegetable incentive program

Caregiver or child has a medical condition that impacts their ability to eat fruits and vegetables

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Treatment Details

Interventions

Veggie Vouchers (Behavioral Intervention)

Trial OverviewThe study is testing 'Veggie Vouchers' to see if they help families buy more fruits and vegetables compared to just getting educational materials. Caregivers will either receive vouchers or be placed on a wait-list while receiving education.

Participant Groups

2Treatment groups

Experimental Treatment

Active Control

Group I: Diet interventionExperimental Treatment1 Intervention

Caregivers will receive brief education about a SNAP fruit and vegetable incentive program in South Carolina during their child's pediatrician visit. Following the visit, caregivers will receive a "free trial" of this SNAP program to encourage first-time use. After the free trial, caregivers can continue purchasing the same fruit and vegetable boxes at a steeply discounted price using their SNAP card. Free home delivery during the "free trial" and for all subsequent boxes purchased at a discounted rate will be offered during the full study duration.

Group II: Education-only wait-list controlActive Control1 Intervention

Caregivers will only receive brief education about a SNAP fruit and vegetable incentive program in South Carolina during their child's pediatrician visit. Once caregivers complete all study measures, they will be moved off the wait list and offered the intervention.