SNAP is a key component in the hunger relief landscape that isn’t always talked about. The program is a step removed from EFN’s daily distribution work, and is absolutely essential to food access in Pierce County and in every community in the United States.
What is SNAP, and who does it benefit?
Formerly known as ‘food stamps,’ SNAP stands for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. Most people utilize SNAP through an Electronic Benefits Transfer, or EBT, card. According to the USDA, over 41 million Americans utilize SNAP to help cover their grocery bills. Four out of five households utilizing SNAP include a child, an elderly individual, or a non-elder with a disability.
With so many people utilizing SNAP, why do we still need organizations like EFN and our partner food pantries?
- It can take months to be approved for SNAP benefits, and those seeking assistance need access to food while waiting.
- The average monthly benefit for SNAP is $297, which would not feed an entire family, even when combined with earned income.
- SNAP benefits are calculated using the Thrifty Food Plan, which doesn’t reflect many people’s lived experience of shopping, cooking, and working.
- Not everyone qualifies for SNAP, even if they’re struggling to access and afford food.
What is the impact of SNAP?
At the Food Research and Action Center (FRAC), SNAP Director Salaam Bhatti says, “For every one meal [food banks] can provide, SNAP provides nine meals for low-income people.” That’s because SNAP puts food purchasing funds directly in the hands of consumers. SNAP allows people to choose the foods that work best for their family, and it also supports our economy. According to FRAC, every dollar in SNAP benefits generates $1.79 in economic activity. That means SNAP doesn’t just benefit its users, it benefits growers, grocers, and the economy as a whole. Bhatti says, “Food banks shouldn’t be the first line of defense [against hunger]. They should just be there for emergency food situations.”
Why are you telling me about SNAP now?
This summer, SNAP’s future is being debated as part of the Farm Bill, which determines its funding and policies. This bill, passed every five years, can significantly impact how benefits are calculated and distributed.
Take action to strengthen and protect SNAP so that all our neighbors can access nutritious food. Here are some ways to help:
- Read up on the ins and outs of this year’s Farm Bill using resources from the Food Research and Action Center.
- Contact your congressional representatives and urge them to protect SNAP – and reject cuts that would harm our neighbors.
Thank you for helping to ensure that all our neighbors have access to nutritious food, whether through SNAP or through one of our 75+ Partner Programs. Together, we can ensure that no person goes hungry.