US Department of Agriculture (USDA) officials, state administrators, and anti-hunger advocates have all raised the possibility of a new name for the federal Food Stamp Program. Two major factors are driving interest 1) benefits no longer come in the form of "stamps," but are delivered via Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT); and 2) a new program name might lessen perceived stigma and better position the Program with clients and the public.

Some State Governments Use New Program Names

In recent years, three states have renamed the Food Stamp Program.

• For Michigan, it's the "Food Assistance Program" (go to http://www.michigan.gov/fia/0,1607,7-124-5453_5527-21832--,00.html)
  
  
• For Minnesota, it's the "Food Support Program" (go to http://www.dhs.state.mn.us/ECS/Program/FoodSupport.htm)
  
  
• For Washington state, it's "The Basic Food Program" (go to https://wws2.wa.gov/dshs/onlinecso/Food_Assistance_Program.asp)

Informal Rebranding in Some Media Markets

• Informal program rebranding is also occurring in some other media markets. For example, many recent Kansas state government materials refer to the "Food Assistance Program." (Go to http://www.srskansas.org/KEESM/Forms/ES-3100.6_10-01.pdf )
  
  
• In 2003 Wisconsin conducted some research in preparation for renaming the program; after learning of federal interest in a new national name, however, the state decided to await further USDA action. (For link to July 31, 2003 Milwaukee Journal Sentinel article on the matter, go to http://www.jsonline.com/news/state/jul03/159083.asp).
  
  
• Noting the switch to EBT benefit delivery and use of an ATM-like card for program benefits, advocates in New York City have begun promoting participation through the "Food Card". (Go to http://www.cfrcnyc.org/media/Broch_eng.pdf )
  
  
• In 2003, the Texas-based Center for Public Policy Priorities web site (www.cppp.org) featured an on-line survey to solicit name recommendations from advocates and other stakeholders. Of the 230 votes cast, 41% were for "Food Support Program." Runner up names: "Nutrition Assistance Program received 29% of votes; "Food Assistance Program got 7% of votes.

Feedback

To provide FRAC with your feecback or recommendations regarding possible renaming of the Food Stamp Program, e-mail evollinger@frac.org