Food Stamp Program Analysis

The food stamp project was established in the 1930’s in response to the great depression. It was later terminated "since the conditions that brought the program into being--unmarketable food surpluses and widespread unemployment--no longer existed" (Short History, 2014). A food assistance program was reinstated by executive order based on a campaign promise from president Kennedy. Among the official purposes of the Food Stamp Act of 1964 were strengthening the agricultural economy and providing improved levels of nutrition among low-income households (Short History, 2014). A negative stigma developed towards individuals who participated in the food stamp program. To combat the stigma the title was changed to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or (SNAP). The name of Food Stamp Act was also changed to the Food and Nutrition Act. Of the 10 million children currently receiving food assistance the average amount per meal is approximately 90 cents (Downs, Moore, & McFadden, 2009). The program is supposed to provide for a more nutritious diet; however, at the current rate most individuals on food assistance can only afford foods that are processed and that can contribute to obesity.

A secondary food assistance program is also available to low income families. This is known
Federal laws and regulations dictate the basic tenets of SNAP. However, states can choose from among various policy options to modify the program. The state is required to pay a penalty fee for any payments to SNAP recipients who were given unlawfully. The WIC program receives a federal grant in an amount that Congress approves each year and is administered at the federal