| Affiliations: | Urban Re-Rural/Everybody Eats: Community Food Security and the Land Grant School |
| Project Leader: | Andrew McNeely amcneely@tamu.edu Sociology |
| Faculty Mentor: | Sarah Gatson, Ph.D. |
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Meeting Times:
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Spring 2017: Tues & Thurs 12:45-2:00PM, and probably Mon and Fri mornings |
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Team Size:
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4 (Team Full) |
| Open Spots: | 0 |
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Special Opportunities:
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Team Needs:
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strong communication and observation skills; at least one member to assist in managing database of information |
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Description:
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Brazos County has a significantly higher number of religious congregations than the average county in Texas. Along with this, it also has a significantly higher rate of food insecurity among its citizens. These two realities, ostensibly, should not exist simultaneously in the same area. The purpose of this research project is to investigate the relationship between religious bodies and food security issues. Initially, we will explore baseline statistical data to establish the relationship. Further, we will create contacts with as many religious bodies as possible in order to perform participant-observational research with their food related service programs, investigating the variation across religion, denomination, size, and structure. The goal is to determine, if possible, what aspects of religious organizations—if any—affect food security issues in their community, and how. This project will emphasize a sociological imagination when thinking about religious issues in a community. As such, all religious activities will be treated objectively and with respect at all times. |