In these hard economic times, more and more Americans have no choice but to seek refuge in governmental aid... one such program: food stamps. With millions out of work and "major industries" collapsing, food stamp use is now at record highs.
Once seen as a "social stigma", food stamps are becoming the norm in cities and towns all across the country. Reports show that food stamps, now called the "Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program," help feed one in eight Americans and one in four children.
More Regulation?
While the the stamps are proving satisfactory to many in-need, some critics of the program suggest that the food stamps should be regulated to promote healthier eating.
Others point out the high cost of fresh veggies and fruits, which in turn forces the less fortunate to purchase cheaper foods like hot-dogs and potato chips.
Fortunately for advocates of healthy eating, in some parts of the country, food stamps are now being accepted at farmers' markets, a promising development.
A Really Cool NY Times Infographic
As you probably already know, the economic crisis and near-record unemployment has food stamp usage increasing at a rapid rate. The New York Times has a really cool interactive map on food stamp usage in the United States – showing stats for every county in the nation.
It even lets you further segment the data by viewing only children or the differences between black and white food stamp recipients as well as the change from 2007.
For example, in our hometown, Bloomington, Indiana, the map says that 6% of all residents are on food stamps and 14% of all kids. That may seem like quite a lot, but apparently it's actually down by 5% from 2007.
Weighing In
What are your thoughts? Should the government increase regulation of what food-stamp beneficiaries can purchase? Or should the decision rest with the consumer? Send us your comments!
Read More:
- Food Stamps: The Economics of Eating Well (New York Times)
- Food Stamp Use Soars, and Stigma Fades (New York Times)
- Food Stamps, Now Paperless, Are Getting Easier To Use At Farmers' Markets (New York Times)
