Peer-reviewed article
Promising Practices to Promote Snap at Schools: A Quantitative Analysis of Snap Outreach Efforts.
Taylor JS, Koch K, DeSimone J, Kairios R, Jones V ·
Summary
Written by AI, not yet AICS's view · claude-haiku-4-5-20251001This study examined how schools can increase caregiver awareness and enrollment in SNAP, a US food assistance program. Twelve school districts implemented stigma-free outreach initiatives that reached over 8,600 participants. Caregivers who received the outreach showed significant increases in knowledge about SNAP benefits, eligibility, and how to apply. School-based outreach appears to be an effective way to reduce barriers to food assistance for families with children.
Key points
- 17.9% of US households with children experienced food insecurity in 2023
- School-based SNAP outreach was associated with statistically significant increases in caregiver knowledge (p < 0.001)
- Caregivers showed increased awareness of benefits, eligibility, application sites, and available assistance
- Partnerships with community organizations enhanced support while minimizing burden on school staff
- Schools are identified as effective access points for reducing the 'SNAP Gap' through outreach and stigma reduction
Limitations
The study used retrospective post-then-pre surveys which may be subject to recall bias. The document does not report whether increased knowledge translated into actual SNAP enrollment or improved food security outcomes for children.
Abstract
Background In 2023, 17.9% of US households with children experienced food insecurity. While the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) aims to reduce food insecurity, persistent under-enrollment, labeled the "SNAP Gap," limits its impact. Schools represent a strategic yet underutilized setting to reach eligible families. This study examined school-based strategies to increase caregivers' awareness and knowledge of SNAP. Methods Twelve diverse school districts implemented stigma-free SNAP outreach initiatives, reaching 8601 participants across 37 outreach events statewide. Caregiver knowledge and perceptions about SNAP were then assessed via online retrospective post-then-pre surveys and analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests. Results Among caregivers (n = 1144), SNAP outreach was associated with statistically significant increases in knowledge (p < 0.001), including awareness of benefits, eligibility, application sites, and available assistance. Implications for school health policy, practice, and equity Tailored, school-based outreach can reduce stigma, normalize use, and increase knowledge of SNAP. Partnerships with community organizations enhance support while minimizing school staff burden. Conclusions Schools are effective access points for narrowing the SNAP Gap through outreach, education, and stigma reduction. Future research should examine student perspectives on SNAP and school meal program participation.