Food insecurity is still an issue faced today although not exactly in the same way.  Because of that the means of addressing it have changed as well.  Currently in the United States there are public welfare programs like WIC (Women Infant Children) and SNAP (most commonly known as ‘food stamps’) to address the country’s food insecurity needs.  At the local level, community food pantries are available for those struggling to feed their families.

Both of these programs' goals are to meet the health needs of families who are food insecure.  For those whose needs are still not met or their needs are catastrophic or short term based, there are community pantries available.

Federal Poverty Level, 2016 (1).

SNAP program benefits are available to those whose income fall below the federally determined poverty level. With this program they are able to receive vouchers to use at local grocery stores for their specific needs.  In 2010 the average monthly amount given to each recipient was $ 118 dollars which is about enough money to cover the basics.

SNAP Participants in Cache County, 1989-2010 (2).

By looking at the trends in SNAP participation in Cache County over the years, we can see a steady influx in participants (2).  Does this mean poverty in Cache valley has nearly doubled between the years 1989 and 2010, or does it mean SNAP is reaching more of those in poverty due to more availability and an increase in social acceptance of government assistance?  Perhaps it is just a reflection of population growth?

While the population has increased over the years it is not the sole reason for greater participation in government welfare programs.

According to census data in the year 2000, 9.36% of Cache County’s population was reported to fall below the federally determined poverty level.  Compared to the 15.27% reported in 2010 a nearly 6% increase in poverty is seen.  While an increase in poverty is seen, so is the increase of reaching those in poverty.  In the year 2000 only 31% of those below the poverty line received government assistance compared to the 59% who received assistance in 2010.  While there has been an increase in reaching those in need there the fact still remains that 41% of those living in poverty in 2010 did not receive governmental assistance, and hunger in Cache Valley is still seen.

A more specific needs based program in place is Women Infants and Children (WIC), whose benefits are available to pregnant women, breastfeeding women, post-partum women up to 6 months after birth, infants, and children up to the age of five, to aid in critical development years.  In order to qualify for WIC services each individual is evaluated based on four criteria needs; categorical, residential, income, and nutrition risk. (3) WIC also provides vouchers to use at local retail and grocery stores.

The difference between SNAP and WIC is that the food purchasable by WIC vouchers is very specific in amount and product.  Their vouchers cover a wide range of healthy foods including items like wholesome cereals, juices, milk and baby formula.