Distributing Supplemental Food For Adults, Children, & Especially Seniors, Who Lack An Adequate Supply

The Current State of Poverty and Food Insecurity in Mecklenburg County, VA

Studies show a notable level of food insecurity, a condition where households lack consistent access to enough food, in parts of the region including areas around Mecklenburg County. Research historically has indicated that a significant share of residents may experience disruption in dietary quality or less food security compared with national averages.

Here are the most recent estimates available (including 2024 ACS five-year data and food access survey findings) for poverty and food insecurity in Mecklenburg County, Virginia:

Poverty in Mecklenburg County, VA

Poverty rate:

About 16.3 % of residents live below the federal poverty line. This means nearly 1 in 6 people in the county are considered to be living in poverty based on income thresholds used by the U.S. Census Bureau.

(For comparison: the overall poverty rate for Virginia is lower, around 9.9 %.)

Food Insecurity in Mecklenburg County, VA

Food insecurity rate:

Estimates from local health assessments and food access data put the food insecurity rate around 12 %–13 % of households — meaning these households do not always have reliable access to enough nutritious food.

This figure aligns with multiple local sources indicating Mecklenburg County has a food insecurity rate higher than the statewide average (Virginia overall is generally near ~8 % per state estimates) but similar to other rural/southside areas.

Note:

“Food insecurity” refers to a lack of consistent access to enough food for an active, healthy life — which includes cutting meal size or skipping meals because of limited resources.

Summary

Measure: Mecklenburg County, VA

Poverty rate: ~16.3 % of residents

Food insecurity rate: ~12–13 % of households

How Can You Help?

Did you know a 1 pound bag of dried beans and a 1 pound bag of rice can provide a delicious, nutritious and filling meal for 12-14 servings? See the full article and bean and rice recipes here. Consider printing these to share with our neighbors in need when they pick up their Monthly Pantry Box.

The Current State of Poverty and Food Insecurity in Mecklenburg County, VA

LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program)

A federally funded program designed to help low-income families pay for residential energy costs (heating and cooling).
Funds are given to states, territories, and tribes, which then operate their own local programs.
It does not operate nationally via a single federal application — you apply through your state’s agency.
Assistance is typically a one-time payment credited directly to your utility or fuel provider and does not need to be repaid.

Virginia’s Energy Assistance Program (EA)

If you’re in Virginia, the state runs the Energy Assistance (EA) program, a form of LIHEAP through the Virginia Department of Social Services that helps eligible households pay energy bills.

Components of Virginia’s EA

The Virginia program includes multiple types of help for low-income households:

Fuel Assistance – help paying heating fuel costs in winter
Crisis Assistance – funds for households facing an energy emergency (like imminent shut-off)
Cooling Assistance – help with cooling costs in summer
Weatherization Assistance – upgrades to improve energy efficiency and lower bills over time
(eligibility varies by program).

Eligibility

You must have a heating or cooling energy expense.
Your gross monthly income must be at or below 150% of the federal poverty level (based on household size).

How to Apply

Applications are accepted through your local Virginia Department of Social Services office.
You can apply online via the CommonHelp portal, in person, by mail, or by fax.
There are seasonal deadlines for certain assistance types (e.g., winter heating crisis help).

Upcoming Pantry Schedule

Community Resources

Get In Touch

Clarksville Food Pantry

Clarksville Community Center

103 Woodland Drive

Clarksville, VA 23927