SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)
Last updatedWhat to know
SNAP stands for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. While it is still widely colloquially known as “food stamps,” that term has historically had racist and classist connotations. Using the formal name and acronym for the program alongside a brief mention for clarity (“SNAP, sometimes informally known as food stamps”) can help educate audiences.
SNAP is a federal program that provides low-income individuals and families with food-purchasing assistance. It began in the Great Depression and evolved with the 1964 Food Stamp Act in an attempt to establish a permanent program.
Currently, individuals must meet state eligibility criteria to receive SNAP benefits such as income, disability status, and citizenship status, as well as work requirements in some states. SNAP also places restrictions on items that can be purchased, ostensibly to promote healthy eating. For example, SNAP cannot be used when purchasing alcohol, hot food from a store, medical items, or some energy drinks, among others.
Additional resources
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) (US Department of Agriculture)
- A Short History of SNAP (USDA)
Summary
SNAP stands for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. While it is still widely colloquially known as “food stamps,” that term has historically had racist and classist connotations. Using the formal name and acronym for the program alongside a brief mention for clarity (“SNAP, sometimes informally known as food stamps”) can help educate audiences.