The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is a federal program in the United States aimed at supporting eligible low-income individuals and families with financial relief for food purchases.

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is responsible for administering the resources of SNAP, which aims to alleviate nutrition and provide financial assistance for grocery purchases.

Beneficiaries receive an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) debit card, which can be used with funds deposited each month. The amount is based on factors such as household size and income. SNAP plays a crucial role in addressing food insecurity, supporting vulnerable populations and promoting better nutrition for millions of Americans in need.

Funds can be used to purchase eligible foods such as fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy products, bread, cereals, snacks and non-alcoholic beverages. The list also includes seeds and plants that produce food for home consumption, with the aim of supporting nutritious diets.

SNAP benefits cannot be used to purchase non-food items, including alcohol, tobacco products, vitamins, medicines, prepared hot meals and pet food, nor household items, personal care items or other goods such as paper products and cleaning products, which are not considered food.

SNAP is a social assistance program

The SNAP program is considered welfare because it is based on an eligibility criterion based on providing resources to low-income beneficiaries, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, which also has social insurance programs marked.

Given this definition, any program, whether federal or state, that provides financial assistance to relieve beneficiaries in family areas such as food, medical care or housing.

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is considered a welfare program along with others such as Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income, the Children’s Health Insurance Program, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, the Earned Income Tax Credit and housing assistance.

In contrast, other federal programs such as Social Security or Medicare are an entitlement for all citizens, regardless of income.