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Food Assistance

Food Assistance programs in the United States are designed to ensure adequate nutrition and encourage healthy eating choices for low-income and at-risk families. The three main food assistance programs are the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, formerly Food Stamps until October 1, 2008), the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) and the National School Lunch Program which provides free or reduced cost lunches to low-income families. Other governmental programs include the School Breakfast Program, Disaster SNAP, and the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations. State and local agencies may also support additional food assistance programs such as food banks and food pantries. This section features research on key issues related to food assistance including: the availability of healthy foods; cost and access to food for low-income families; food deserts; food insecurity; malnutrition; and obesity. Resources on specific programs and approaches, as well as research on program utilization is also highlighted.

View recommendations from the SSRC Librarian on Food Assistance and relevant Federal laws and regulations below. 

fruits and vegetables