How many Americans receive food stamps?
Critical Analysis
Find answers to the following questions using the visual above, any links below, your big brain, and your knowledge of American government and politics:
According to the visual above, about how many Americans received Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP – commonly known as food stamps - in FY (fiscal year) 2024?
In 2024, 12.3% of the US population participated in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Eligibility in SNAP is determined based on household income levels. SNAP, once known as the Food Stamp program, is administered by the Department of Agriculture providing food assistance to low-income individuals. Based on the visual above, describe the change over time in the number of food stamp recipients in the U.S.
The Great Recession was the sharp decline in economic activity that started in 2007 and lasted several years. It is considered the most significant downturn since the Great Depression in the 1930s. What happened to the number of food stamp recipients after 2007 and why do you think that is?
For a family of four in 2023 to qualify for the program it must earn no more than $2,313 in net monthly income (income after taxes and deductions). currently, 12.3% of the total U.S. population receives SNAP benefits. Some people argue that that financial cutoff is too high, others, that it is too low. What would you propose as the maximum net monthly income to qualify for this program?
In April 2023, the national average SNAP benefit was $181.72 per person. What would you propose as the average benefit an individual could receive from this program?
Imagine the typical recipient of food stamps (SNAP) then using the data from the visual below, describe the typical SNAP (food stamp) recipient. Explain how the typical SNAP recipient diverges from your preconception of them.
Using the map below, identify the percent of the population of your state that receives SNAP (food stamps).
On July 4, 2025, President Trump signed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) into law. The legislation includes $186 billion in cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). OBBBA leaves the nearly 3 million young adults ages 18 to 24 who receive SNAP vulnerable to losing that assistance. Why do you think SNAP recipients were targeted for cuts?
A government shutdown will not immediately stop SNAP benefits, as they are funded in advance and recipients will likely get their current October payment. SNAP is a partnership where the federal government provides benefits and states handle day-to-day administration, with a recent federal change requiring states to pay a greater share of administrative costs starting in 2026. Several states are now warn that they will be forced to suspend Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits come Nov. 1 if the shutdown continues. What on earth does any of this have to do with federalism? Pro-tip: think about it.
SNAP is the nation's largest domestic food-assistance program. How do you think reduction in payments will impact your community?
Write and Discuss
Take ten minutes to write about the question at the top of the page and then discuss with your classmates.
Act on your Learning
Contact your congressional representatives and let them know what you think about the SNAP program.
Get Creative
In April 2023, the national average SNAP benefit was $181.72 per person. That’s 49 cents a day. Plan a menu for one meal on 49 cents. Then plan a menu for one meal on $181.
Learning Extension*
Learn more about SNAP benefits from the Pew Research Center.
