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1.6.4 Total and Share of the Population Who Participate in the USDA Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
Why is this important?
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which is formerly known as the Food Stamp Program, provides free food to low-income Americans. SNAP is the largest of the federal food and nutrition programs, covering more than 35 million people each month, and has been in existence since 1961. The majority of those receiving SNAP aid are families with children, most of which are headed by single parents. The next largest group is non-elderly adults without children.
To qualify for the program, recipients must meet certain thresholds. Their gross income cannot exceed 130% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), and they cannot have more than $2,000-3,000 in liquid household assets. Income from Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) is not counted in the income threshold. The benefits vary by family size, composition, and geographical location. The average benefit is less than $100 a month for individuals and about $200 a month for households. For more information on the FPL, see Indicator 1.6.1. A list of services and benefits available in Washington State, as well as web links to corresponding applications, can be found at Washington Connection.
This indicator measures the share of the Walla Walla County population that is enrolled in SNAP and is offered as an annual average. Washington State is offered as a benchmark.
Where are we?
During 2022, the total number of residents enrolled in the USDA SNAP program in Walla Walla County was 10,252, increasing from 5,908, or by 73.5% since 2000.
By comparison during 2022, the share of the population that was enrolled in the USDA SNAP program in:
- Walla Walla County was 16.4%, increasing from 10.7% in 2000.
- Washington State was 14.8%, increasing from 8.8% in 2000.
- The U.S. was 12.4%, increasing from 6.1% in 2000.
Data Sources