Introducing the SNAP Challenge

The United Way recently asked us if we could be a part of their Jumpstart Program to train the Campaign Coordinators from about 40 local companies.

Foodshare staffer Sarah Santora designed and presented and abbreviated SNAP Challenge activity by taking people to the Hartford Stop & Shop.   Participants formed into teams of four “families” who had $4.15 per person to spend on the day’s food purchase. 

After a brief introduction to SNAP and why it matters the participants were given 15 minutes to assemble the day’s meals. They wrote the cost of each item on a check list, totaled it up and brought back their worksheets. Discussion afterward focused on how hard it was to get high quality foods, how they relied on the clearance rack to have any produce at all. Also how long it took to shop so intentionally.

In reflecting on the activity, Sarah said, “I was impressed by how seriously the participants took the challenge and how thoughtful they were about the issues. Overall it was a great exercise.  I wish we were in retail stores more often to do a similar exercise with groups!”

And, as a follow-up, I got an e-mail from Deb Ullman at the YWCA that said, “Our campaign coordinator was reluctant to go to Jumpstart this year because she thought the last couple of years were rather boring.  I encouraged her to go because you said it would be great.  She came back very pumped about the whole day and learned things that she will use with her 2 year old in the grocery store. Even though we talk a lot about our mission and the clients that we serve, she gained a much greater appreciation from your visit to the grocery store.  Congratulations on being bold!”

See some photos on United Way’s Facebook page! 

Would you like to take the SNAP Challenge?  Sign up to try living on a SNAP budget for a week or a whole month in September, Hunger Action Month!