Trends in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Participation Rates: Fiscal Year 2002 to Fiscal Year 2009

Abstract

This report presents findings showing that, from FY 2008 to FY 2009, the number of SNAP participants increased by 18 percent and the number of eligible individuals increased by 15 percent. The large increase in the number of participants was likely attributable to the deterioration of the economy, expansions in SNAP eligibility, and continued outreach efforts.