January – February – March – April – May – June – July – August – September – October – November – December
Caseloads Reflect Economic Need
March 2013 Participation Tables — 1-Month Change, 1-Year, 5-Year Change, and State-by-state analysis (pdf)
SNAP national participation in March 2013 increased by 168,888 people over the month to 47,727,052 people, and was 1.3 million persons higher than in March 2012. The Program provided an important nutrition safety net across the country.
Overall, unemployment and underemployment in most states and efforts to enroll more eligible needy people are factors in SNAP caseload trends.
More than one in seven Americans receives SNAP – that percentage (15.2 % percent) is comparable to the percentage of the American workforce affected by unemployment or underemployment (13.8 percent) in March 2013 according to US Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics U-6 Measure.
State-by-State Trends
Increases in SNAP caseloads between March 2012 and March 2013 occurred in 44 states and the District of Columbia. The three states registering over-the-year percentage increases of eight percent or higher were IL, MD, WY.
Still Missing Eligible People at a Time of Food Hardship
Despite recent SNAP caseload growth, gaps in participation remain. One in four people eligible for SNAP go unserved. Implementing SNAP policies that improve program access, ensuring staff capacity to process applications, and mounting outreach campaigns to get the word out to the public can help communities maximize the federal recovery dollars available to help local families and businesses.
High rates of unemployment, underemployment, and poverty are contributing to great need. In 2012, nearly one in five Americans struggled with “food hardship,” according to a FRAC analysis of data (pdf) collected through the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index project.
SNAP Effect on Participants and Communities
For struggling families, SNAP is making a huge difference on their economic well-being and health. Reports from the U.S. Census Bureau and USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) show that SNAP benefits, if counted in income, would have lifted 3.9 million Americans—1.7 million of then children–above the poverty line in 2011.
A Children’s HealthWatch brief (pdf) documents health improvements for young children whose households received increased SNAP benefits provided under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). Researchers compared samples of young children before the recession, before the SNAP benefit boost, and then during the two years following the ARRA SNAP benefit increase.
Following the increase, “children in families receiving SNAP were significantly more likely to be classified as ‘well’ than young children whose families were eligible but did not receive SNAP.”
SNAP also matters for local economies. Based on USDA research, it is estimated that each one dollar in federally funded SNAP benefits generates $1.79 in economic activity.
See Historic Trends: 1998 – 2012 for more information.
Caseloads Reflect Economic Need
SNAP national participation in February 2013 decreased by 213,962 people over the month to 47,558,101 people, and was 1.2 million persons higher than in February 2012. The Program provided an important nutrition safety net across the country.
Overall, unemployment and underemployment in most states and efforts to enroll more eligible needy people are factors in SNAP caseload trends.
More than one in seven Americans receives SNAP – that percentage (15.2% percent) is comparable to the percentage of the American workforce affected by unemployment or underemployment (14.3 percent) in February 2013 according to US Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics U-6 Measure.
State-by-State Trends
Increases in SNAP caseloads between February 2012 and February 2013 occurred in 41 states and the District of Columbia. The three states registering over-the-year percentage increases of eight percent or higher were IL, WY, LA.
Still Missing Eligible People at a Time of Food Hardship
Despite recent SNAP caseload growth, gaps in participation remain. One in four people eligible for SNAP go unserved. Implementing SNAP policies that improve program access, ensuring staff capacity to process applications, and mounting outreach campaigns to get the word out to the public can help communities maximize the federal recovery dollars available to help local families and businesses.
High rates of unemployment, underemployment, and poverty are contributing to great need. In 2012, nearly one in five Americans struggled with “food hardship,” according to a FRAC analysis of data (pdf) collected through the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index project.
SNAP Effect on Participants and Communities
For struggling families, SNAP is making a huge difference on their economic well-being and health. Reports from the U.S. Census Bureau and USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) show that SNAP benefits, if counted in income, would have lifted 3.9 million Americans—1.7 million of then children–above the poverty line in 2011.
A Children’s HealthWatch brief (pdf) documents health improvements for young children whose households received increased SNAP benefits provided under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). Researchers compared samples of young children before the recession, before the SNAP benefit boost, and then during the two years following the ARRA SNAP benefit increase. Following the increase, “children in families receiving SNAP were significantly more likely to be classified as ‘well’ than young children whose families were eligible but did not receive SNAP.”
SNAP also matters for local economies. Based on USDA research, it is estimated that each one dollar in federally funded SNAP benefits generates $1.79 in economic activity.
See Historic Trends: 1998 – 2012 for more information.
Caseloads Reflect Continued Economic Need
SNAP national participation in January 2013 decreased by 19,948 people over the month to 47,772,108 people, and was 1.3 million persons higher than in January 2012. The Program provided an important nutrition safety net across the country.
Overall, unemployment and underemployment in most states and efforts to enroll more eligible needy people continue to contribute to SNAP caseload.
More than one in seven Americans receives SNAP – that percentage (15.2% percent) is comparable to the percentage of the American workforce affected by unemployment or underemployment (14.4 percent) in January 2013 according to US Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics U-6 Measure.
State-by-State Trends
Increases in SNAP caseloads between January 2012 and January 2013 occurred in 40 states and the District of Columbia. The six states registering over-the-year percentage increases of eight percent or higher were IL, WY, HI, FL, NJ, LA.
Still Missing Eligible People at a Time of Food Hardship
Despite recent SNAP caseload growth, gaps in participation remain. One in four people eligible for SNAP go unserved. Implementing SNAP policies that improve program access, ensuring staff capacity to process applications, and mounting outreach campaigns to get the word out to the public can help communities maximize the federal recovery dollars available to help local families and businesses.
High rates of unemployment, underemployment, and poverty are contributing to great need. In 2012, nearly one in five Americans struggled with “food hardship,” according to a FRAC analysis of data (pdf) collected through the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index project.
SNAP Effect on Participants and Communities
For struggling families, SNAP is making a huge difference on their economic well-being and health. Reports from the U.S. Census Bureau and USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) show that SNAP benefits, if counted in income, would have lifted 3.9 million Americans—1.7 million of then children–above the poverty line in 2011.
A Children’s HealthWatch brief (pdf) documents health improvements for young children whose households received increased SNAP benefits provided under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). Researchers compared samples of young children before the recession, before the SNAP benefit boost, and then during the two years following the ARRA SNAP benefit increase. Following the increase, “children in families receiving SNAP were significantly more likely to be classified as ‘well’ than young children whose families were eligible but did not receive SNAP.”
SNAP also matters for local economies. Based on USDA research, it is estimated that each one dollar in federally funded SNAP benefits generates $1.79 in economic activity.
See Historic Trends: 1998 – 2012 for more information.
Fluctuations Reflect Economic Need as Well as Disaster Aid
SNAP national participation in December 2012 increased by 109,924 people over the month to 47,791,996 people, and was nearly 1.3 million persons higher than in December 2011. The Program provided an important nutrition safety net across the country.
Overall, unemployment and underemployment in most states and efforts to enroll more eligible needy people continue to contribute to SNAP caseload growth in recent years. In addition, SNAP also provided temporary benefits to many disaster victims in the wake of storms in late 2012.
More than one in seven Americans receives SNAP – that percentage (15.2% percent) is comparable to the percentage of the American workforce affected by unemployment or underemployment (14.4 percent) in December 2012 according to US Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics U-6 Measure.
State-by-State Trends
Increases in SNAP caseloads between December 2011 and December 2012 occurred in 40 states and the District of Columbia. The six states registering over-the-year percentage increases of eight percent or higher were NJ, WY, IL, HI, LA, and FL.
Still Missing Eligible People at a Time of Food Hardship
Despite recent SNAP caseload growth, gaps in participation remain. One in four people eligible for SNAP go unserved. Implementing SNAP policies that improve program access, ensuring staff capacity to process applications, and mounting outreach campaigns to get the word out to the public can help communities maximize the federal recovery dollars available to help local families and businesses.
High rates of unemployment, underemployment, and poverty are contributing to great need. In 2012, nearly one in five Americans struggled with “food hardship,” according to a FRAC analysis of data (pdf) collected through the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index project.
SNAP Effect on Participants and Communities
For struggling families, SNAP is making a huge difference on their economic well-being and health. Reports from the U.S. Census Bureau and USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) show that SNAP benefits, if counted in income, would have lifted 3.9 million Americans—1.7 million of then children–above the poverty line in 2011.
A Children’s HealthWatch brief (pdf) documents health improvements for young children whose households received increased SNAP benefits provided under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). Researchers compared samples of young children before the recession, before the SNAP benefit boost, and then during the two years following the ARRA SNAP benefit increase. Following the increase, “children in families receiving SNAP were significantly more likely to be classified as ‘well’ than young children whose families were eligible but did not receive SNAP.”
SNAP also matters for local economies. Based on USDA research, it is estimated that each one dollar in federally funded SNAP benefits generates $1.79 in economic activity.
See Historic Trends: 1998 – 2011 for more information.
Jump Reflects Disaster Benefits for Hurricane Sandy Victims
SNAP national participation in November 2012 increased by 141,067 people over the month to 47,692,896 people, and was more than 1.4 million persons higher than in November 2011. The over-the-month increase reflects the provision of temporary Disaster SNAP (D-SNAP) benefits to some of those in areas hard hit by Hurricane Sandy.
Overall, unemployment and underemployment in most states and efforts to enroll more eligible needy people continue to contribute to SNAP caseload growth in recent years. More than one in seven Americans receives SNAP – that percentage (15.4 percent) is comparable to the percentage of the American workforce affected by unemployment or underemployment (14.4 percent) in November 2012 according to US Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics U-6 Measure.
State-by-State Trends
Increases in SNAP caseloads between November 2011 and November 2012 occurred in 42 states and the District of Columbia. The six states registering over-the-year percentage increases above eight percent were WY, MT, NJ, HI, IL, and FL. States in which Disaster SNAP (D-SNAP) benefits were provided were CT, LA, MD, MS, NJ, NY, PA, RI, VA, WV.
Still Missing Eligible People at a Time of Food Hardship
Despite recent SNAP caseload growth, gaps in participation remain. One in four people eligible for SNAP go unserved. Implementing SNAP policies that improve program access, ensuring staff capacity to process applications, and mounting outreach campaigns to get the word out to the public can help communities maximize the federal recovery dollars available to help local families and businesses.
High rates of unemployment, underemployment, and poverty are contributing to great need. In the first six months of 2012, nearly one in five Americans struggled with “food hardship,” according to a FRAC analysis of data collected through the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index project. And many American workers are unemployed or underemployed. Indeed, the share of the US population receiving SNAP is similar to the percentage of the U.S. workforce experiencing unemployment or underemployment. Follow this link to an October 2010 to September 2011 state-by-state comparison of SNAP and unemployment/underemployment rates. In addition to responding to changes in economic need, in 2012 SNAP also has responded to temporary need driven by natural disasters.
SNAP Effect on Participants and Communities
For struggling families, SNAP is making a huge difference on their economic well-being and health. Reports from the U.S. Census Bureau and USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) show that SNAP benefits, if counted in income, would have lifted 3.9 million Americans—1.7 million of then children–above the poverty line in 2011.
A Children’s HealthWatch brief (pdf) documents health improvements for young children whose households received increased SNAP benefits provided under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). Researchers compared samples of young children before the recession, before the SNAP benefit boost, and then during the two years following the ARRA SNAP benefit increase. Following the increase, “children in families receiving SNAP were significantly more likely to be classified as ‘well’ than young children whose families were eligible but did not receive SNAP.”
SNAP also matters for local economies. Based on USDA research, it is estimated that each one dollar in federally funded SNAP benefits generates $1.79 in economic activity.
See Historic Trends: 1998 – 2011 for more information.
Over-Month-Decline Reflect End of Temporary Hurricane Isaac Relief
SNAP national participation in October 2012 dropped by 184,954 people over the month to 47,525,329 people, but still was 1,289,165 persons higher than in October 2011. The over-the-month decline reflects the end of temporary Disaster SNAP benefits that had been provided to many Hurricane Isaac victims in Louisiana and Mississippi in September.
Overall, unemployment and underemployment in most states and efforts to enroll more eligible needy people continue to contribute to SNAP caseload growth in recent years. More than one in seven Americans receives SNAP – that percentage (15.4 percent) is comparable to the percentage of the American workforce affected by unemployment or underemployment (14.5 percent) in October 2012 according to US Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics U-6 Measure.
State-by-State Trends
Increases in SNAP caseloads between October 2011 and October 2012 occurred in 37 states and the District of Columbia. The ten states registering the highest over-the-year percentage increases were WY, HI, IL, FL, CA, NC, MA, MD, CO and IA.
Still Missing Eligible People at a Time of Food Hardship
Despite recent SNAP caseload growth, gaps in participation remain. One in four people eligible for SNAP go unserved. Implementing SNAP policies that improve program access, ensuring staff capacity to process applications, and mounting outreach campaigns to get the word out to the public can help communities maximize the federal recovery dollars available to help local families and businesses.
High rates of unemployment, underemployment, and poverty are contributing to great need. In the first six months of 2012, nearly one in five Americans struggled with “food hardship,” according to a FRAC analysis of data collected through the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index project. And many American workers are unemployed or underemployed. Indeed, the share of the US population receiving SNAP is similar to the percentage of the U.S. workforce experiencing unemployment or underemployment. Follow this link to an October 2010 to September 2011 state-by-state comparison of SNAP and unemployment/underemployment rates. In addition to responding to changes in economic need, in 2012 SNAP also has responded to temporary need driven by natural disasters.
SNAP Effect on Participants and Communities
For struggling families, SNAP is making a huge difference on their economic well-being and health. Reports from the U.S. Census Bureau and USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) show that SNAP benefits, if counted in income, would have lifted 3.9 million Americans—1.7 million of then children–above the poverty line in 2011.
A Children’s HealthWatch brief (pdf) documents health improvements for young children whose households received increased SNAP benefits provided under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). Researchers compared samples of young children before the recession, before the SNAP benefit boost, and then during the two years following the ARRA SNAP benefit increase. Following the increase, “children in families receiving SNAP were significantly more likely to be classified as ‘well’ than young children whose families were eligible but did not receive SNAP.”
SNAP also matters for local economies. Based on USDA research, it is estimated that each one dollar in federally funded SNAP benefits generates $1.79 in economic activity.
See Historic Trends: 1998 – 2011 for more information.
Growth in Caseloads Linked to Hurricane Isaac Response
SNAP national participation in September 2012 increased by 607,559 people over the month to 47,710,324 people, 1,442,074 persons higher than in September 2011. This increase includes Disaster SNAP use in Louisiana and Mississippi in response to Hurricane Isaac hitting the Gulf Coast in late August.
Still, unemployment and underemployment in most states and efforts to enroll more eligible needy people continue to contribute to SNAP caseload growth in recent years. More than one in seven Americans receives SNAP – that percentage (15.5 percent) is comparable to the percentage of the American workforce affected by unemployment or underemployment (14.7) percent in September 2012 according to US Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics U-6 Measure.
State-by-State Trends
Increases in SNAP caseloads between September 2011 and September 2012 occurred in 37 states and the District of Columbia. The five states registering the highest over-the-year percentage increases were Louisiana (61.7 percent), Mississippi (13.4 percent), Hawaii (9.9 percent), Florida (9.0 percent), and Illinois (8.0 percent).
Still Missing Eligible People at a Time of Food Hardship
Despite recent SNAP caseload growth, gaps in participation remain. Three in ten people eligible for SNAP go unserved. Implementing SNAP policies that improve program access, ensuring staff capacity to process applications, and mounting outreach campaigns to get the word out to the public can help communities maximize the federal recovery dollars available to help local families and businesses.
High rates of unemployment, underemployment, and poverty are contributing to great need. In the first six months of 2012, nearly one in five Americans struggled with “food hardship,” according to a FRAC analysis of data collected through the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index project. And many American workers are unemployed or underemployed. Indeed, the share of the US population receiving SNAP is similar to the percentage of the U.S. workforce experiencing unemployment or underemployment. Follow this link to an October 2010 to September 2011 state-by-state comparison of SNAP and unemployment/underemployment rates. In addition to responding to changes in economic need, in 2012 SNAP also has responded to temporary need driven by natural disasters.
SNAP Effect on Participants and Communities
For struggling families, SNAP is making a huge difference on their economic well-being and health. Reports from the U.S. Census Bureau and USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) show that SNAP benefits, if counted in income, would have lifted 3.9 million Americans—1.7 million of then children–above the poverty line in 2011.
A Children’s HealthWatch brief (pdf) documents health improvements for young children whose households received increased SNAP benefits provided under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). Researchers compared samples of young children before the recession, before the SNAP benefit boost, and then during the two years following the ARRA SNAP benefit increase. Following the increase, “children in families receiving SNAP were significantly more likely to be classified as ‘well’ than young children whose families were eligible but did not receive SNAP.”
SNAP also matters for local economies. Based on USDA research, it is estimated that each one dollar in federally funded SNAP benefits generates $1.79 in economic activity.
See Historic Trends: 1998 – 2011 for more information.
Caseload Growth Linked to Economic Hardship
July 2012 Participation Tables — 1-Month Change, 1-Year, 5-Year Change, and State-by-state analysis (pdf)
SNAP national participation in July 2012 inched up by 11,532 people over the month to 46,681,833 people, 1,336,360 persons higher than in July 2011.
Unemployment and underemployment in most states and efforts to enroll more eligible needy people have contributed to SNAP caseload growth in recent years. More than one in seven Americans receives SNAP – that percentage (15.1 percent) is comparable to the percentage of the American workforce affected by unemployment or underemployment (15.0) percent in July 2012 according to US Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics U-6 Measure).
State-by-State Trends
Increases in SNAP caseloads between June 2011 and June 2012 occurred in 39 states and the District of Columbia. The five states registering the highest over-the-year percentage increases were Hawaii (10.0 percent), Florida (9.6 percent), Georgia (7.2 percent), Colorado (7.0 percent), and Delaware (7.0 percent).
Still Missing Eligible People at a Time of Food Hardship
Despite recent SNAP caseload growth, gaps in participation remain. Three in ten people eligible for SNAP go unserved. Implementing SNAP policies that improve program access, ensuring staff capacity to process applications, and mounting outreach campaigns to get the word out to the public can help communities maximize the federal recovery dollars available to help local families and businesses.
High rates of unemployment, underemployment, and poverty are contributing to great need. In the first six months of 2012, nearly one in five Americans struggled with “food hardship,” according to a FRAC analysis of data collected through the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index project. And many American workers are unemployed or underemployed. Indeed, the share of the US population receiving SNAP is similar to the percentage of the U.S. workforce experiencing unemployment or underemployment. Follow this link to an October 2010 to September 2011 state-by-state comparison of SNAP and unemployment/underemployment rates. In addition to responding to changes in economic need, in 2011 SNAP also has responded to temporary need driven by natural disasters.
SNAP Effect on Participants and Communities
For struggling families, SNAP is making a huge difference on their economic well-being and health. Reports from the U.S. Census Bureau and USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) show that SNAP benefits, if counted in income, would have lifted 3.9 million Americans—1.7 million of then children–above the poverty line in 2011.
A Children’s HealthWatch brief (pdf) documents health improvements for young children whose households received increased SNAP benefits provided under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). Researchers compared samples of young children before the recession, before the SNAP benefit boost, and then during the two years following the ARRA SNAP benefit increase. Following the increase, “children in families receiving SNAP were significantly more likely to be classified as ‘well’ than young children whose families were eligible but did not receive SNAP.”
SNAP also matters for local economies. Based on USDA research, it is estimated that each one dollar in federally funded SNAP benefits generates $1.79 in economic activity.
See Historic Trends: 1998 – 2011 for more information.
Caseload Growth Linked to Economic Hardship
June 2012 Participation Tables — 1-Month Change, 1-Year, 5-Year Change, and State-by-state analysis (pdf)
SNAP national participation in June 2012 rose to 46,670,373 people, an increase of 173,162 people from May 2012, and 1,486,446 people higher than in June 2011. The number of people participating in SNAP in May 2012 was approximately 29.8 million more persons than in July 2000, when program participation nationally reached its lowest point in the prior decade (16.9 million individuals).
Unemployment and underemployment in most states and efforts to enroll more eligible needy people have contributed to SNAP caseload growth in recent years. More than one in seven Americans receives SNAP – that percentage (15.1 percent) is comparable to the percentage of the American workforce affected by unemployment or underemployment (14.9) percent according to US Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics U-6 Measure).
State-by-State Trends
Increases in SNAP caseloads between June 2011 and June 2012 occurred in 40 states and the District of Columbia. The states registering the highest over-the-year percentage increases were Hawaii (10.6 percent), Florida (9.7 percent), New Jersey (7.6 percent), Delaware (7.5 percent), California (7.3 percent), Iowa (6.9 percent), Georgia (6.5 percent), Colorado (6.4 percent), Rhode Island (6.4 percent), and Oregon (6.0 percent).
Still Missing Eligible People at a Time of Food Hardship
Despite recent SNAP caseload growth, gaps in participation remain. Three in ten people eligible for SNAP go unserved. Implementing SNAP policies that improve program access, ensuring staff capacity to process applications, and mounting outreach campaigns to get the word out to the public can help communities maximize the federal recovery dollars available to help local families and businesses.
High rates of unemployment, underemployment, and poverty are contributing to great need. In the first six months of 2012, nearly one in five Americans struggled with “food hardship,” according to a FRAC analysis of data collected through the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index project. And many American workers are unemployed or underemployed. Indeed, the share of the US population receiving SNAP is similar to the percentage of the U.S. workforce experiencing unemployment or underemployment. Follow this link to an October 2010 to September 2011 state-by-state comparison of SNAP and unemployment/underemployment rates. In addition to responding to changes in economic need, in 2011 SNAP also has responded to temporary need driven by natural disasters.
SNAP Effect on Participants and Communities
For struggling families, SNAP is making a huge difference on their economic well-being and health. Reports from the U.S. Census Bureau and USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) show that SNAP benefits lift people out of poverty. According to an FNS report, the five states where SNAP made the largest percentage point difference in lifting households above 101 percent of the poverty level were New York (33.5), Vermont (26), Rhode Island (25.1), Massachusetts (23), and Alaska (19.4). Follow this link to a FRAC state-by-state analysis of the SNAP effect on poverty.
A Children’s HealthWatch brief (pdf) documents health improvements for young children whose households received increased SNAP benefits provided under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). Researchers compared samples of young children before the recession, before the SNAP benefit boost, and then during the two years following the ARRA SNAP benefit increase. Following the increase, “children in families receiving SNAP were significantly more likely to be classified as ‘well’ than young children whose families were eligible but did not receive SNAP.”
SNAP also matters for local economies. Based on USDA research, it is estimated that each one dollar in federally funded SNAP benefits generates $1.79 in economic activity.
See Historic Trends: 1998 – 2011 for more information.
Caseload Growth Linked to Economic Hardship
May 2012 Participation Tables — 1-Month Change, 1-Year, 5-Year Change, and State-by-state analysis (pdf)
SNAP national participation in May 2012 rose to 46,496,788 people, an increase of 222,157 people from April 2012, and 1,086,103 people higher than in May 2011. The number of people participating in SNAP in May 2012 was nearly 29.6 million more persons than in July 2000, when program participation nationally reached its lowest point in the prior decade (16.9 million individuals).
Unemployment and underemployment in most states and efforts to enroll more eligible needy people have contributed to SNAP caseload growth in recent years. More than one in seven Americans receives SNAP –that percentage (15.1%) is comparable to the percentage of the American workforce affected by unemployment or underemployment (14.8 percent according to US Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics U-6 Measure).
State-by-State Trends
Increases in SNAP caseloads between May 2011 and May 2012 occurred in 42 states and the District of Columbia. Hawaii registered a 10.9 percent increase. At the other end, Alabama’s participation was down by 36.1 percent compared with May 2011, when temporary Disaster SNAP (D-SNAP) benefits were provided to many Alabama residents hard hit by devastating storms.
Still Missing Eligible People at a Time of Food Hardship
Despite recent SNAP caseload growth, gaps in participation remain. Three in ten people eligible for SNAP go unserved. Implementing SNAP policies that improve program access, ensuring staff capacity to process applications, and mounting outreach campaigns to get the word out to the public can help communities maximize the federal recovery dollars available to help local families and businesses.
High rates of unemployment, underemployment, and poverty are contributing to great need. In 2011, nearly one in five Americans struggled with “food hardship,” according to a FRAC analysis of data collected through the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index project. And many American workers are unemployed or underemployed. Indeed, the share of the US population receiving SNAP is similar to the percentage of the U.S. workforce experiencing unemployment or underemployment. Follow this link to an October 2010 to September 2011 state-by-state comparison of SNAP and unemployment/underemployment rates. In addition to responding to changes in economic need, in 2011 SNAP also has responded to temporary need driven by natural disasters.
SNAP Effect on Participants and Communities
For struggling families, SNAP is making a huge difference on their economic well-being and health. Reports from the U.S. Census Bureau and USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) show that SNAP benefits lift people out of poverty. According to an FNS report, the five states where SNAP made the largest percentage point difference in lifting households above 101 percent of the poverty level were New York (33.5), Vermont (26), Rhode Island (25.1), Massachusetts (23), and Alaska (19.4). Follow this link to a FRAC state-by-state analysis of the SNAP effect on poverty.
A Children’s HealthWatch brief (pdf) documents health improvements for young children whose households received increased SNAP benefits provided under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). Researchers compared samples of young children before the recession, before the SNAP benefit boost, and then during the two years following the ARRA SNAP benefit increase. Following the increase, “children in families receiving SNAP were significantly more likely to be classified as ‘well’ than young children whose families were eligible but did not receive SNAP.”
SNAP also matters for local economies. Based on USDA research, it is estimated that each one dollar in federally funded SNAP benefits generates $1.79 in economic activity.
See Historic Trends: 1998 – 2011 for more information.
April 2012 Participation Tables — 1-Month Change, 1-Year, 5-Year Change, and State-by-state analysis (pdf)
SNAP national participation in April 2012 dropped to 46,187,429 people, a decrease of 217,795 people from the SNAP participation levels of March 2012. Over the prior month only 13 states registered caseload increases, but, compared with the prior April, 41 states and the District of Columbia had SNAP caseload increases.
Unemployment and underemployment in most states and efforts to enroll more eligible needy people have contributed to SNAP caseload growth in recent years. More than one in seven Americans receives SNAP –that percentage (15.0%) is comparable to the percentage of the American workforce affected by unemployment or underemployment (14.5 percent according to US Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics U-6 Measure).
SNAP caseload levels in April 2012 were more than 1.5 million people higher compared with April 2011. The number of people participating in SNAP in April 2012 was nearly 29.3 million more persons than in July 2000, when program participation nationally reached its lowest point in the prior decade (16.9 million individuals). On the federal level the program was renamed SNAP pursuant to the 2008 Farm Bill.
Increases in SNAP caseloads between April 2011 and April 2012 occurred in 41 states and the District of Columbia. Only Hawaii registered a double digit over-the-year percentage caseload increase with a 10.9% increase.
Nonetheless, gaps in participation remain. Three in ten people eligible for SNAP go unserved. Implementing SNAP policies that improve program access, ensuring staff capacity to process applications, and mounting outreach campaigns to get the word out to the public can help communities maximize the federal recovery dollars available to help local families and businesses.
High rates of unemployment, underemployment, and poverty are contributing to great need. In 2011, nearly one in five Americans struggled with “food hardship,” according to a FRAC analysis of data collected through the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index project. And many American workers are unemployed or underemployed. Indeed, the share of the US population receiving SNAP is similar to the percentage of the U.S. workforce experiencing unemployment or underemployment. Follow this link to an October 2010 to September 2011 state-by-state comparison of SNAP and unemployment/underemployment rates. In addition to responding to changes in economic need, in 2011 SNAP also has responded to temporary need driven by natural disasters.
For struggling families, SNAP is making a huge difference on their economic well-being and health. Reports from the U.S. Census Bureau and USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) show that SNAP benefits lift people out of poverty. According to an FNS report, the five states where SNAP made the largest percentage point difference in lifting households above 101 percent of the poverty level were New York (33.5), Vermont (26), Rhode Island (25.1), Massachusetts (23), and Alaska (19.4). Follow this link to a FRAC state-by-state analysis of the SNAP effect on poverty.
A Children’s HealthWatch brief (pdf) documents health improvements for young children whose households received increased SNAP benefits provided under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). Researchers compared samples of young children before the recession, before the SNAP benefit boost, and then during the two years following the ARRA SNAP benefit increase. Following the increase, “children in families receiving SNAP were significantly more likely to be classified as ‘well’ than young children whose families were eligible but did not receive SNAP.”
SNAP also matters for local economies. Based on USDA research, it is estimated that each one dollar in federally funded SNAP benefits generates $1.79 in economic activity.
See Historic Trends: 1998 – 2011 for more information.
March 2012 Participation Tables — 1-Month Change, 1-Year, 5-Year Change, and State-by-state analysis (pdf)
SNAP national participation in March 2012 Increased to 46,405,204 people, up by 79,917 people from the SNAP participation levels of February 2011. D-SNAP benefits were available in March 2012 for some residents in Illinois, Indiana, and Kentucky, contributing to the one month increase in participation. 33 states registered over-the-month caseload increases and all but six states registered increases over the prior March levels.
Unemployment and underemployment in most states and efforts to enroll more eligible needy people have contributed to SNAP caseload growth in recent years. More than one in seven Americans receives SNAP –that percentage (15.0%) is comparable to the percentage of the American workforce affected by unemployment or underemployment (14.5 percent according to US Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics U-6 Measure).
SNAP caseload levels in March 2012 were more than 1.8 million people higher compared with March 2011. The number of people participating in SNAP in March 2012 was over 29.5 million more persons than in July 2000, when program participation nationally reached its lowest point in the prior decade (16.9 million individuals). On the federal level the program was renamed SNAP pursuant to the 2008 Farm Bill.
Increases in SNAP caseloads between March 2011 and March 2012 occurred in 44 states and the District of Columbia. The three states that registered double digit over-the-year percentage caseload increases were: Hawaii (10.9%); Delaware (10.6%); and New Jersey (10.2%).
Nonetheless, gaps in participation remain. Three in ten people eligible for SNAP go unserved. Implementing SNAP policies that improve program access, ensuring staff capacity to process applications, and mounting outreach campaigns to get the word out to the public can help communities maximize the federal recovery dollars available to help local families and businesses.
High rates of unemployment, underemployment, and poverty are contributing to great need. In 2011, nearly one in five Americans struggled with “food hardship,” according to a FRAC analysis of data collected through the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index project. And many American workers are unemployed or underemployed. Indeed, the share of the US population receiving SNAP is similar to the percentage of the U.S. workforce experiencing unemployment or underemployment. Follow this link to an October 2010 to September 2011 state-by-state comparison of SNAP and unemployment/underemployment rates. In addition to responding to changes in economic need, in 2011 SNAP also has responded to temporary need driven by natural disasters.
For struggling families, SNAP is making a huge difference on their economic well-being and health. Reports from the U.S. Census Bureau and USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) show that SNAP benefits lift people out of poverty. According to an FNS report, the five states where SNAP made the largest percentage point difference in lifting households above 101 percent of the poverty level were New York (33.5), Vermont (26), Rhode Island (25.1), Massachusetts (23), and Alaska (19.4). Follow this link to a FRAC state-by-state analysis of the SNAP effect on poverty.
A Children’s HealthWatch brief (pdf) documents health improvements for young children whose households received increased SNAP benefits provided under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). Researchers compared samples of young children before the recession, before the SNAP benefit boost, and then during the two years following the ARRA SNAP benefit increase. Following the increase, “children in families receiving SNAP were significantly more likely to be classified as ‘well’ than young children whose families were eligible but did not receive SNAP.”
SNAP also matters for local economies. Based on USDA research, it is estimated that each one dollar in federally funded SNAP benefits generates $1.79 in economic activity.
See Historic Trends: 1998 – 2011 for more information.
SNAP national participation in February 2012 dipped to 46,326,352 people, down by 123,385 people from the SNAP participation levels of January 2011. 22 states registered over-the-month caseload increases and all but four states registered increases over the prior February levels.
Unemployment and underemployment in most states and efforts to enroll more eligible needy people have contributed to SNAP caseload growth in recent years. More than one in seven Americans receives SNAP –that percentage (15.0%) is comparable to the percentage of the American workforce affected by unemployment or underemployment (14.9 percent according to US Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics U-6 Measure).
SNAP caseload levels in February 2012 were more than 2.1 million people higher compared with February 2011. The number of people participating in SNAP in February 2012 was over 29.4 million more persons than in July 2000, when program participation nationally reached its lowest point in the prior decade (16.9 million individuals). On the federal level the program was renamed SNAP pursuant to the 2008 Farm Bill.
Increases in SNAP caseloads between February 2011 and February 2012 occurred in 46 states and the District of Columbia. The four states that registered double digit over-the-year percentage caseload increases were: Delaware (11.7%); Iowa (10.8%); Colorado (10.1%); and Hawaii (10.8%).
Nonetheless, gaps in participation remain. Three in ten people eligible for SNAP go unserved. Implementing SNAP policies that improve program access, ensuring staff capacity to process applications, and mounting outreach campaigns to get the word out to the public can help communities maximize the federal recovery dollars available to help local families and businesses.
High rates of unemployment, underemployment, and poverty are contributing to great need. In 2011, nearly one in five Americans struggled with “food hardship,” according to a FRAC analysis of data collected through the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index project. And many American workers are unemployed or underemployed. Indeed, the share of the US population receiving SNAP is similar to the percentage of the U.S. workforce experiencing unemployment or underemployment. Follow this link to an October 2010 to September 2011 state-by-state comparison of SNAP and unemployment/underemployment rates. In addition to responding to changes in economic need, in 2011 SNAP also has responded to temporary need driven by natural disasters.
For struggling families, SNAP is making a huge difference on their economic well-being and health. Reports from the U.S. Census Bureau and USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) show that SNAP benefits lift people out of poverty. According to an FNS report, the five states where SNAP made the largest percentage point difference in lifting households above 101 percent of the poverty level were New York (33.5), Vermont (26), Rhode Island (25.1), Massachusetts (23), and Alaska (19.4). Follow this link to a FRAC state-by-state analysis of the SNAP effect on poverty.
A Children’s HealthWatch brief (pdf) documents health improvements for young children whose households received increased SNAP benefits provided under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). Researchers compared samples of young children before the recession, before the SNAP benefit boost, and then during the two years following the ARRA SNAP benefit increase. Following the increase, “children in families receiving SNAP were significantly more likely to be classified as ‘well’ than young children whose families were eligible but did not receive SNAP.”
SNAP also matters for local economies. Based on USDA research, it is estimated that each one dollar in federally funded SNAP benefits generates $1.79 in economic activity.
See Historic Trends: 1998 – 2011 for more information.
SNAP national participation in January 2012 dipped to 46,449,850 people, down by 64,307 people from the record SNAP participation levels of December 2011. 28 states registered over-the-month caseload increases and all but four states registered increases over the prior January levels.
Unemployment and underemployment in most states and efforts to enroll more eligible needy people have contributed to SNAP caseload growth in recent years. More than one in seven Americans receives SNAP –that percentage (15.0%) is comparable to the percentage of the American workforce affected by unemployment or underemployment (15.1 % according to US Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics U-6 Measure).
SNAP caseload levels in January 2012 were more than 2.2 million people higher compared with January 2011. The number of people participating in SNAP in January 2012 was nearly 29.6 million more persons than in July 2000, when program participation nationally reached its lowest point in the prior decade (16.9 million individuals). On the federal level the program was renamed SNAP pursuant to the 2008 Farm Bill.
Increases in SNAP caseloads between January 2011 and January 2012 occurred in 46 states and the District of Columbia. The six states that registered double digit over-the-year percentage caseload increases were: Delaware (12.4%); Iowa (11.7%); Colorado (10.9%); Rhode Island (10.8); Hawaii (10.6%); and New Jersey (10.4%).
Nonetheless, gaps in participation remain. Three in ten people eligible for SNAP go unserved. Implementing SNAP policies that improve program access, ensuring staff capacity to process applications, and mounting outreach campaigns to get the word out to the public can help communities maximize the federal recovery dollars available to help local families and businesses.
High rates of unemployment, underemployment, and poverty are contributing to great need. In 2011, nearly one in five Americans struggled with “food hardship,” according to a FRAC analysis of data collected through the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index project. And many American workers are unemployed or underemployed. Indeed, the share of the US population receiving SNAP is similar to the percentage of the U.S. workforce experiencing unemployment or underemployment. Follow this link to an October 2010 to September 2011 state-by-state comparison of SNAP and unemployment/underemployment rates. In addition to responding to changes in economic need, in 2011 SNAP also has responded to temporary need driven by natural disasters.
For struggling families, SNAP is making a huge difference on their economic well-being and health. Reports from the U.S. Census Bureau and USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) show that SNAP benefits lift people out of poverty. According to an FNS report, the five states where SNAP made the largest percentage point difference in lifting households above 101 percent of the poverty level were New York (33.5), Vermont (26), Rhode Island (25.1), Massachusetts (23), and Alaska (19.4). Follow this link to a FRAC state-by-state analysis of the SNAP effect on poverty.
A Children’s HealthWatch brief (pdf) documents health improvements for young children whose households received increased SNAP benefits provided under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). Researchers compared samples of young children before the recession, before the SNAP benefit boost, and then during the two years following the ARRA SNAP benefit increase. Following the increase, “children in families receiving SNAP were significantly more likely to be classified as ‘well’ than young children whose families were eligible but did not receive SNAP.”
SNAP also matters for local economies. Based on USDA research, it is estimated that each one dollar in federally funded SNAP benefits generates $1.79 in economic activity.
See Historic Trends: 1998 – 2011 for more information.
SNAP national participation in December 2011 rose to a record 46,514,238 people, an over-the month increase of 227,922 people but an increase of 2.4 million people compared with December 2010. More than one in seven Americans receives SNAP.
The number of people participating in SNAP in December 2011 was nearly 29.6 million more persons than in July 2000, when program participation nationally reached its lowest point in the prior decade (16.9 million individuals). On the federal level the program was renamed SNAP pursuant to the 2008 Farm Bill.
Unemployment and undermployment in most states and efforts to enroll more eligible needy people contributed to caseload growth.
Increases in SNAP caseloads between December 2010 and December 2011 occurred in 45 states and the District of Columbia. The ten states that registered the largest over-the-year percentage caseload increases were: Iowa (13.7%); Delaware (12.2%); New Jersey (11.7%); Alaska (11.6%); Colorado (10.7%); Hawaii (10.7%); Minnesota (10.5%); Rhode Island (9.9%); California (9.4%); Connecticut (9.0%).
Nonetheless, gaps in participation remain. Three in ten people eligible for SNAP go unserved. Implementing SNAP policies that improve program access, ensuring staff capacity to process applications, and mounting outreach campaigns to get the word out to the public can help communities maximize the federal recovery dollars available to help local families and businesses.
High rates of unemployment, underemployment, and poverty are contributing to great need. In 2011, nearly one in five Americans struggled with “food hardship,” according to a FRAC analysis of data collected through the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index project. And many American workers are unemployed or underemployed. Indeed, the share of the US population receiving SNAP is similar to the percentage of the U.S. workforce experiencing unemployment or underemployment. Follow this link to an October 2010 to September 2011 state-by-state comparison of SNAP and unemployment/underemployment rates. In addition to responding to changes in economic need, in 2011 SNAP also has responded to temporary need driven by natural disasters.
For struggling families, SNAP is making a huge difference on their economic well-being and health. Reports from the U.S. Census Bureau and USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) show that SNAP benefits lift people out of poverty. According to an FNS report, the five states where SNAP made the largest percentage point difference in lifting households above 101 percent of the poverty level were New York (33.5), Vermont (26), Rhode Island (25.1), Massachusetts (23), and Alaska (19.4). Follow this link to a FRAC state-by-state analysis of the SNAP effect on poverty.
A recent Children’s HealthWatch brief (pdf) documents health improvements for young children whose households received increased SNAP benefits provided under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). Researchers compared samples of young children before the recession, before the SNAP benefit boost, and then during the two years following the ARRA SNAP benefit increase. Following the increase, “children in families receiving SNAP were significantly more likely to be classified as ‘well’ than young children whose families were eligible but did not receive SNAP.”
SNAP also matters for local economies. Based on USDA research, it is estimated that each one dollar in federally funded SNAP benefits generates $1.79 in economic activity.
See Historic Trends: 1998 – 2010 for more information.
SNAP national participation in November 2011 rose to a record 46,286,294 people, an over-the month increase of 61,519 people but an increase of 2.7 million people compared with November 2010. One in seven Americans receives SNAP.
The number of people participating in SNAP in November 2011 was nearly 29.4 million more persons than in July 2000, when program participation nationally reached its lowest point in the prior decade (16.9 million individuals). On the federal level the program was renamed SNAP pursuant to the 2008 Farm Bill.
Increases in SNAP caseloads between November 2010 and November 2011 occurred in 48 states and the District of Columbia. The ten states that registered the largest over-the-year percentage caseload increases were: Delaware (14.3%); New Jersey (14.3%); Iowa (13.5%); Minnesota (12.6%); Alaska (12.0%); Hawaii (12.0%); Colorado (10.6%); Maryland (10.2%); California (10.0%); and Rhode Island (10.0%).
October 2011 and November 2011 caseload totals for Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania included SNAP benefits for disaster victims.
Nonetheless, gaps in participation remain. Three in ten people eligible for SNAP go unserved. Implementing SNAP policies that improve program access, ensuring staff capacity to process applications, and mounting outreach campaigns to get the word out to the public can help communities maximize the federal recovery dollars available to help local families and businesses.
High rates of unemployment, underemployment, and poverty are contributing to great need. In 2010, one in five Americans struggled with “food hardship,” according to a FRAC analysis of data collected through the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index project. And many American workers are unemployed or underemployed. Indeed, the share of the US population receiving SNAP is similar to the percentage of the U.S. workforce experiencing unemployment or underemployment. Follow this link to an October 2010 to September 2011 state-by-state comparison of SNAP and unemployment/underemployment rates. In addition to responding to changes in economic need, in 2011 SNAP also has responded to temporary need driven by natural disasters.
For struggling families, SNAP is making a huge difference on their economic well-being and health. Reports from the U.S. Census Bureau and USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) show that SNAP benefits lift people out of poverty. According to an FNS report, the five states where SNAP made the largest percentage point difference in lifting households above 101 percent of the poverty level were New York (33.5), Vermont (26), Rhode Island (25.1), Massachusetts (23), and Alaska (19.4). Follow this link to a FRAC state-by-state analysis of the SNAP effect on poverty.
A recent Children’s HealthWatch brief (pdf) documents health improvements for young children whose households received increased SNAP benefits provided under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). Researchers compared samples of young children before the recession, before the SNAP benefit boost, and then during the two years following the ARRA SNAP benefit increase. Following the increase, “children in families receiving SNAP were significantly more likely to be classified as ‘well’ than young children whose families were eligible but did not receive SNAP.”
See Historic Trends: 1998 – 2010 for more information.
October 2011 participation tables (pdf)
In part due to an end to temporary Disaster SNAP benefits in several states that had been hit by Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee, SNAP national participation in October 2011 dipped by 43,428 people to 46,224,722 people—but still represented an increase of more than three million people compared with October 2010. One in seven Americans receives SNAP. USDA officials also cited an improved labor market for some of the change. Nonetheless, an estimated one in four people eligible for SNAP is left unserved.
Increases in SNAP caseloads between October 2010 and October 2011 occurred in 47 states and the District of Columbia. The ten states that registered the largest over-the-year percentage caseload increases were: New Jersey (26.9%); Minnesota (15.8%); Delaware (13.6%); Iowa (12.9%); Alaska (12.7%); Hawaii (12.6%); Maryland (12.6%); Colorado (12%); Nevada (10.7%); and Rhode Island (10.7%).
October 2011 caseload totals for Pennsylvania included SNAP benefits for victims of Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee.
Nonetheless, gaps in participation remain. Three in ten people eligible for SNAP go unserved. Implementing SNAP policies that improve program access, ensuring staff capacity to process applications, and mounting outreach campaigns to get the word out to the public can help communities maximize the federal recovery dollars available to help local families and businesses.
The number of people participating in SNAP in October 2011 was 29.3 million more persons than in July 2000, when program participation nationally reached its lowest point in the past decade (16.9 million individuals). On the federal level the program was renamed SNAP pursuant to the 2008 Farm Bill.
High rates of unemployment, underemployment, and poverty are contributing to great need. In 2010, one in five Americans struggled with “food hardship,” according to a FRAC analysis of data collected through the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index project. And many American workers are unemployed or underemployed. Indeed, the share of the US population receiving SNAP is similar to the percentage of the U.S. workforce experiencing unemployment or underemployment. Follow this link to an October 2010 to September 2011 state-by-state comparison of SNAP and unemployment/underemployment rates. In addition to responding to changes in economic need, in 2011 SNAP also has responded to temporary need driven by natural disasters.
For struggling families, SNAP is making a huge difference on their economic well-being and health. Reports from the U.S. Census Bureau and USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) show that SNAP benefits lift people out of poverty. According to an FNS report, the five states where SNAP made the largest percentage point difference in lifting households above 101 percent of the poverty level were New York (33.5), Vermont (26), Rhode Island (25.1), Massachusetts (23), and Alaska (19.4). Follow this link to a FRAC state-by-state analysis of the SNAP effect on poverty.
A recent Children’s HealthWatch brief (pdf) documents health improvements for young children whose households received increased SNAP benefits provided under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). Researchers compared samples of young children before the recession, before the SNAP benefit boost, and then during the two years following the ARRA SNAP benefit increase. Following the increase, “children in families receiving SNAP were significantly more likely to be classified as ‘well’ than young children whose families were eligible but did not receive SNAP.”
See Historic Trends: 1998 – 2010 for more information.
September 2011 participation tables (pdf)
In September 2011, SNAP/Food Stamps national participation rose to a record 46,268,257 people – an increase of more than 430,434 people compared with September 2010. One in seven Americans receives SNAP/Food Stamps.
Increases in SNAP/Food Stamps caseloads between September 2010 and September 2011 occurred in 47 states and the District of Columbia. The ten states that registered the largest over-the-year percentage caseload increases were: New Jersey (32.9%); North Carolina (21.7%); Minnesota (15.8%); Delaware (15.6%); Hawaii (14.2%); Maryland (14.0%); Iowa (12.7%); Colorado (11.7%); Alaska (11.5%); and Rhode Island (11.3%).
September 2011 caseload totals for 11 states included SNAP benefits for victims of disasters: Connecticut, Delaware, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont and Virginia.
Nonetheless, gaps in participation remain. Three in ten people eligible for SNAP go unserved. Implementing SNAP/Food Stamps policies that improve program access, ensuring staff capacity to process applications, and mounting outreach campaigns to get the word out to the public can help communities maximize the federal recovery dollars available to help local families and businesses.
The number of people participating in SNAP/Food Stamps in September 2011 was 28.9 million more persons than in July 2000, when program participation nationally reached its lowest point in the past decade (16.9 million individuals). On the federal level the program was renamed SNAP pursuant to the 2008 Farm Bill.
High rates of unemployment, underemployment, and poverty are contributing to great need. In 2010, one in five Americans struggled with “food hardship,” according to a FRAC analysis of data collected through the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index project. And many American workers are unemployed or underemployed. Indeed, the share of the US population receiving SNAP is similar to the percentage of the U.S. workforce experiencing unemployment or underemployment. Follow this link to an October 2010 to September 2011 state-by-state comparison of SNAP and unemployment/underemployment rates. In addition to responding to changes in economic need, in 2011 SNAP also has responded to temporary need driven by natural disasters.
For struggling families, SNAP is making a huge difference on their economic well-being and health. Reports from the U.S. Census Bureau and USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) show that SNAP benefits lift people out of poverty. According to an FNS report, the five states where SNAP made the largest percentage point difference in lifting households above 101 percent of the poverty level were New York (33.5), Vermont (26), Rhode Island (25.1), Massachusetts (23), and Alaska (19.4). Follow this link to a FRAC state-by-state analysis of the SNAP effect on poverty.
A recent Children’s HealthWatch brief (pdf) documents health improvements for young children whose households received increased SNAP benefits provided under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). Researchers compared samples of young children before the recession, before the SNAP benefit boost, and then during the two years following the ARRA SNAP benefit increase. Following the increase, “children in families receiving SNAP were significantly more likely to be classified as ‘well’ than young children whose families were eligible but did not receive SNAP.”
See Historic Trends: 1998 – 2010 for more information.
August 2011 Participation Tables (pdf)
In August 2011, SNAP/Food Stamps national participation rose to a record more than 45.8 million people – an increase of more than 3.4 million people compared with August 2010. One in seven Americans receives SNAP/Food Stamps.
Increases in SNAP/Food Stamps caseloads between August 2010 and August 2011 occurred in all regions of the country. The ten states that registered the largest over-the-year percentage caseload increases were: Delaware (16.8%); Minnesota (16.7%); New Jersey (16.3%); Maryland (15.2%); Hawaii (14.1%); North Carolina (13.2%); Washington (12.9%); Florida (12.6%); Nevada (12.4%); and Alaska (12.1%).
Nonetheless, gaps in participation remain. Three in ten people eligible for SNAP go unserved. Implementing SNAP/Food Stamps policies that improve program access, ensuring staff capacity to process applications, and mounting outreach campaigns to get the word out to the public can help communities maximize the federal recovery dollars available to help local families and businesses.
The number of people participating in SNAP/Food Stamps in August 2011 was 28.9 million more persons than in July 2000, when program participation nationally reached its lowest point in the past decade (16.9 million individuals). The program was renamed SNAP pursuant to the 2008 Farm Bill.
High rates of unemployment, underemployment, and poverty are contributing to great need. In 2010, one in five Americans struggled with “food hardship,” according to a FRAC analysis of data collected through the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index project. And many American workers are unemployed or underemployed. Indeed, the share of the US population receiving SNAP is similar to the percentage of the U.S. workforce experiencing unemployment or underemployment. Follow this link to a state-by-state comparison of SNAP and unemployment/underemployment rates. In addition to responding to changes in economic need, in 2011 SNAP also has responded to temporary need driven by natural disasters.
For struggling families, SNAP is making a huge difference on their economic well-being and health. Reports from the U.S. Census Bureau and USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) show that SNAP benefits lift people out of poverty. According to an FNS report, the five states where SNAP made the largest percentage point difference in lifting households above 101 percent of the poverty level were New York (33.5), Vermont (26), Rhode Island (25.1), Massachusetts (23), and Alaska (19.4). Follow this link to a FRAC state-by-state analysis of the SNAP effect on poverty.
A recent Children’s HealthWatch a brief (pdf) documents health improvements for young children whose households received increased SNAP benefits provided under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). Researchers compared samples of young children before the recession, before the SNAP benefit boost, and then during the two years following the ARRA SNAP benefit increase. Following the increase, “children in families receiving SNAP were significantly more likely to be classified as ‘well’ than young children whose families were eligible but did not receive SNAP.”
See Historic Trends: 1998 – 2010 for more information.
July 2011 Participation Tables (pdf)
In July 2011, SNAP/Food Stamps participation nationally topped 45.3 million people – an increase of more than 3.5 million people compared with July 2010. Ongoing economic challenges and natural disasters drove the increase; July 2011 participation rates in four states (Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, and North Dakota) included Disaster SNAP. Currently, one in seven Americans receives SNAP/Food Stamps.
High rates of unemployment, underemployment, and poverty are contributing to great need. In 2010, one in five Americans struggled with “food hardship,” according to FRAC analysis of data collected through the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index project.
For struggling families, SNAP is making a huge difference. Reports from the U.S. Census Bureau and USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) show how SNAP benefits can lift people out of poverty. The FNS report details the characteristics of SNAP participants in FY 2010, including the percentage of households in each state whose incomes were lifted above the poverty level by receipt of SNAP benefits. According to FNS, the five states where SNAP made the largest percentage point difference in lifting households above 101 percent of the poverty level were New York (33.5), Vermont (26), Rhode Island (25.1), Massachusetts (23), and Alaska (19.4).
Increases in SNAP/Food Stamps caseloads between July 2010 and July 2011 occurred in all parts of the country. The ten states that registered the largest over-the-year percentage caseload increases were: Maryland (17.0%); Minnesota (16.7%); New Jersey (16.3%); Delaware (15.9%); North Carolina (15.9%); Nevada (14.5%); Hawaii (14.1%); Florida (13.7%); District of Columbia (12.9%); and California (11.8%).
Nonetheless, gaps in participation remain. Three in ten people eligible for SNAP go unserved. Implementing SNAP/Food Stamps policies that improve program access, ensuring staff capacity to process applications, and mounting outreach campaigns to get the word out to the public can help communities maximize the federal recovery dollars available to help local families and businesses.
To help states identify gaps in participation, FRAC has compared, for every state, the percentage considered unemployed or underemployed to the percentage participating in SNAP. See SNAP and U-6 Participation.
The number of people participating in SNAP/Food Stamps in July 2011 was 28.4 million more persons than in July 2000, when program participation nationally reached its lowest point in the past decade (16.9 million individuals). The program was renamed SNAP pursuant to the 2008 Farm Bill.
See Historic Trends: 1998 – 2010 for more information.
June 2011 Participation Tables (pdf)
In June 2011, SNAP/Food Stamps participation nationally topped 45 million people for only the second time in history, but dipped by 290, 762 to 45,119,921, as temporary Disaster SNAP benefits (D-SNAP) ended for most storm victims in Alabama. D-SNAP benefits were available in June 2011 for some residents in Alabama, Georgia, and North Carolina. Still, the June 2011 SNAP participation level represented an increase of more than 3.8 million people compared with June 2010.
One in seven Americans receives SNAP/Food Stamps.
Unemployment, underemployment, and poverty are contributing to great need. In 2010, one in five Americans struggled with “food hardship,” according to FRAC analysis of data collected through the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index project.
State-by-State Trends
Increases in SNAP/Food Stamps caseloads between June 2010 and June 2011 occurred in all parts of the country. The ten states that registered the largest over-the-year percentage caseload increases were: New Jersey (19.1%); Minnesota (18.6%); North Carolina (18.6%); Delaware (17.9%); Maryland (17.5%); Nevada (17.0%); Florida (16.3%); Hawaii (15.0%); Idaho (14.4%); and New Mexico (13.3%).
Participation Gaps
Nonetheless, gaps in participation remain. Three in ten people eligible for SNAP go unserved. Implementing SNAP/Food Stamps policies that improve program access, ensuring staff capacity to process applications, and mounting outreach campaigns to get the word out to the public can help communities maximize the federal recovery dollars available to help local families and businesses.
The number of people participating in SNAP/Food Stamps in June 2011 was 28.2 million more persons than in July 2000, when program participation nationally reached its lowest point in the past decade (16.9 million individuals). The program was renamed SNAP pursuant to the 2008 Farm Bill.
See Historic Trends: 1998 – 2010 for more information.
May 2011 Participation Tables (pdf)
In May 2011, SNAP/Food Stamps participation rose to a record 45,753,078 people, an increase of 1,105,217 individuals from April 2011, and an increase of more than 4.9 million people compared with May 2010. May 2011 participation rates in Alabama, North Carolina, and Georgia included Disaster SNAP benefits.
One in seven Americans receives SNAP/Food Stamps. This is the highest share of the U.S. population on SNAP/Food Stamps.
Also in 2010, one in five Americans struggled with “food hardship,” according to FRAC analysis of data collected through the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index project.
State-by-State Trends
Increases in SNAP/Food Stamps caseloads between May 2010 and May 2011 occurred in all parts of the country. The ten states that registered the largest over-the-year percentage caseload increases were: Alabama (118%); New Jersey (20.4%); North Carolina (20.4%); Delaware (19.1%); Minnesota (19.1%); Maryland (18.6%); Nevada (18.6%); Florida (17.0%); Idaho (16.1%); and New Mexico (15.4%)..
Participation Gaps
Nonetheless, gaps in participation remain. One in three people eligible for SNAP goes unserved. Implementing SNAP/Food Stamps policies that improve program access, ensuring staff capacity to process applications, and mounting outreach campaigns to get the word out to the public can help communities maximize the federal recovery dollars available to help local families and businesses.
The number of people participating in SNAP/Food Stamps in May 2011 was 28.8 million more persons than in July 2000, when program participation nationally reached its lowest point in the past decade (16.9 million individuals). The program was renamed SNAP pursuant to the 2008 Farm Bill.
See Historic Trends: 1998 – 2010 for more information.
April 2011 Participation Tables (pdf)
In April 2011, SNAP/Food Stamps participation rose to a record 44,647,861 people, an increase of 60,586 individuals from March 2011, and an increase of more than 4.2 million people compared with April 2010.
One in seven Americans receives SNAP/Food Stamps. This is the highest share of the U.S. population on SNAP/Food Stamps.
Also in 2010, one in five Americans struggled with “food hardship,” according to FRAC analysis of data collected through the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index project.
State-by-State Trends
Increases in SNAP/Food Stamps caseloads between April 2010 and April 2011 occurred in all parts of the country. The ten states that registered the largest over-the-year percentage caseload increases were: New Jersey (22.7%); New Mexico (21.2%); Maryland (21.2%); Nevada (19.9%); Delaware (19.4%); Minnesota (18.8%); Florida (18.3%); North Carolina (17.7%); Idaho (16.7%); and Hawaii (15.4%).
Participation Gaps
Nonetheless, gaps in participation remain. One in three people eligible for SNAP goes unserved. Implementing SNAP/Food Stamps policies that improve program access, ensuring staff capacity to process applications, and mounting outreach campaigns to get the word out to the public can help communities maximize the federal recovery dollars available to help local families and businesses.
The number of people participating in SNAP/Food Stamps in April 2011 was 27.7 million more persons than in July 2000, when program participation nationally reached its lowest point in the past decade (16.9 million individuals). The program was renamed SNAP pursuant to the 2008 Farm Bill.
See Historic Trends: 1998 – 2010 for more information.
March 2011 Participation Tables (pdf)
In March 2011, SNAP/Food Stamps participation rose to a record 44,587,328 people, an increase of 387,849 individuals from February 2011, and an increase of more than 4.4 million people compared with March 2010.
One in seven Americans receives SNAP/Food Stamps. This is the highest share of the U.S. population on SNAP/Food Stamps.
Also in 2010, one in five Americans struggled with “food hardship,” according to FRAC analysis of data collected through the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index project.
State-by-State Trends
Increases in SNAP/Food Stamps caseloads between March 2010 and March 2011 occurred in all parts of the country. The ten states that registered the largest over-the-year percentage caseload increases were: New Jersey (24.3%); Delaware (21.9%); Nevada (20.8%); Florida (19.8%); Minnesota (19.0%); Maryland (18.9%); New Mexico (18.5%); Idaho (18.1%); North Carolina (17.6%); and Hawaii (16.7%).
Participation Gaps
Nonetheless, gaps in participation remain. One in three people eligible for SNAP goes unserved. Implementing SNAP/Food Stamps policies that improve program access, ensuring staff capacity to process applications, and mounting outreach campaigns to get the word out to the public can help communities maximize the federal recovery dollars available to help local families and businesses.
The number of people participating in SNAP/Food Stamps in March 2011 was 27.6 million more persons than in July 2000, when program participation nationally reached its lowest point in the past decade (16.9 million individuals). The program was renamed SNAP pursuant to the 2008 Farm Bill.
See Historic Trends: 1998 – 2010 for more information.
February 2011 Participation Tables (pdf)
In February 2011, SNAP/Food Stamps participation rose to a record 44,199,091 people, an increase of 11,417 individuals from January 2011, and an increase of more than 4.6 million people compared with the prior February.
One in seven Americans receives SNAP/Food Stamps. This is the highest share of the U.S. population on SNAP/Food Stamps.
Also in 2010, one in five Americans struggled with “food hardship,” according to FRAC analysis of data collected through the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index project.
State-by-State Trends
Increases in SNAP/Food Stamps caseloads between February 2010 and February 2011 occurred in all parts of the country. The ten states that registered the largest over-the-year percentage caseload increases were: New Jersey (23.1%); Delaware (22.9%); Nevada (22.7%); Maryland (22.1%); Florida (20.6%); Minnesota (19.0%); Idaho (18.9%); New Mexico (17.9%); North Carolina (17.7%); and Hawaii (16.7%).
Participation Gaps
Nonetheless, gaps in participation remain. One in three people eligible for SNAP goes unserved. Implementing SNAP/Food Stamps policies that improve program access, ensuring staff capacity to process applications, and mounting outreach campaigns to get the word out to the public can help communities maximize the federal recovery dollars available to help local families and businesses.
The number of people participating in SNAP/Food Stamps in February 2011 was 27.2 million more persons than in July 2000, when program participation nationally reached its lowest point in the past decade (16.9 million individuals). The program was renamed SNAP pursuant to the 2008 Farm Bill.
See Historic Trends: 1998 – 2010 for more information.
January 2011 Participation Tables (pdf)
In January 2011, SNAP/Food Stamps participation rose to a record 44,187,831 people, an increase of 105,470 individuals from December 2010, and an increase of more than 4.7 million people compared with the prior January.
One in seven Americans receives SNAP/Food Stamps. This is the highest share of the U.S. population on SNAP/Food Stamps.
Also in 2010, one in five Americans struggled with “food hardship,” according to FRAC analysis of data collected through the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index project.
State-by-State Trends
Increases in SNAP/Food Stamps caseloads between January 2010 and January 2011 occurred in all parts of the country. Seven states registered over the year increases of 20 percent or higher: Utah (29.1%); Nevada (24.5%); Florida (22.0%); New Jersey (21.4%); Delaware (21.3%); Maryland (20.9%); and Idaho (20.7%).
Participation Gaps
Nonetheless, gaps in participation remain. One in three people eligible for SNAP goes unserved. Implementing SNAP/Food Stamps policies that improve program access, ensuring staff capacity to process applications, and mounting outreach campaigns to get the word out to the public can help communities maximize the federal recovery dollars available to help local families and businesses.
The number of people participating in SNAP/Food Stamps in January 2011 was 27.2 million more persons than in July 2000, when program participation nationally reached its lowest point in the past decade (16.9 million individuals). The program was renamed SNAP pursuant to the 2008 Farm Bill.
See Historic Trends: 1998 – 2010 for more information.
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