Links of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program With Food Insecurity, Poverty, and Health: Evidence and
Brynne Keith-Jennings1, Joseph Llobrera1, Stacy Dean1
1Brynne Keith-Jennings, Joseph Llobrera, and Stacy Dean are with the food assistance team at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, Washington, DC.
American Journal of Public Health
|November 7, 2019
Summary
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) effectively reduces poverty and improves health. However, benefit levels and eligibility need expansion to better serve vulnerable populations and improve access.
Area of Science:
- Public Health and Nutrition Policy
- Social Welfare Programs
- Food Security Research
Background:
- The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is a crucial, entitlement-funded program supporting national health and well-being.
- SNAP's flexible funding allows rapid response to increased need and provides benefits to all eligible individuals.
- Existing research confirms SNAP's effectiveness in poverty reduction, food security enhancement, and health improvement.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the current effectiveness and identify areas for improvement within the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
- To analyze the adequacy of current SNAP benefit levels and eligibility criteria.
- To identify barriers to SNAP participation for eligible individuals and underserved groups.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing research on SNAP's impact on poverty, food security, and health outcomes.
- Analysis of SNAP's funding structure and responsiveness to economic changes.
- Examination of evidence regarding benefit adequacy and eligibility limitations for vulnerable populations.
Main Results:
- SNAP is a highly effective program with proven benefits for millions, including poverty reduction and improved health.
- Current SNAP benefit levels are insufficient for many households.
- Certain vulnerable groups face limited eligibility, and some eligible individuals encounter barriers to participation.
Conclusions:
- Policy interventions are needed to increase SNAP benefit levels and expand eligibility to underserved populations.
- Continued improvement of federal and state policies and procedures is essential to enhance access for all eligible individuals.
- Addressing these shortcomings will build upon SNAP's successes and further strengthen its role in national health and well-being.
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