FEWER PEOPLE USING FOOD ASSISTANCE

About 1 in 4 Americans participates in at least 1 of USDA’S 15 domestic food and nutrition assistance programs at some point during the year.  But participation rates in several programs slowed or dropped during FY 2013, according to a recent USDA report.  While SNAP participation grew by 2.2%, this was the lowest increase since 2007.  WIC participation fell by 3%, the largest 1-year decrease since the program began in 1974. Participation in the school lunch program fell by 3%, particularly among children who pay full and reduced price. School breakfast participation increased, but only for children receiving free breakfasts.

 

Source: USDA, 2/14, Food Assistance Falls