Seeing how many issues were contributing to the food insecurity problem in Indianapolis made it clear that solving the problem will take a lot of community effort and well planned programs. Due to the abundance of the issue, it is organizations such as the Midwest Food Bank, Gleaner's Food Bank, and the Wheeler Mission who provide resources and hope for struggling individuals. Going forward, we hope to be able to provide support to local food pantries and other food insecurity-related organizations with both our time and our service ideas.

Reflecting on this trip has helped me identify how I can take what I've learned about food insecurity and translate that to my future career as a physician. Food insecurity is part of a web that intersects with other misfortunes such as poverty, homelessness, or lack of education. As a physician, it will be important to identify patients suffering from food insecurity and provide them with resources to maintain a healthy life.

I have always enjoyed volunteering and I have been interested in being more involved in my community but didn't know exactly how to. When I applied to be part of the Hawkeye Service Teams I only knew part of what I would be doing. Little did I know I would be learning many new skills and things about serving my community and those around me. I have never felt so equipped and confident to serve others. I will use all I have learned in class and on the trip to help others in future activities and volunteer opportunities.