What type of assistance does SNAP provide?

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) specifically provides income assistance to help eligible individuals and families purchase food. This program aims to alleviate hunger and improve nutrition by enabling low-income participants to buy groceries and increase their access to a more varied diet.

SNAP benefits are provided through an electronic benefits transfer (EBT) card, which can be used at participating grocery stores and retailers to acquire food items, promoting better food security among vulnerable populations. Understanding the specific role of SNAP in supporting nutrition is vital for gerontological nutritionists, as many elderly individuals may rely on this assistance to afford healthy food options that meet their dietary needs.

This focused type of support is distinct from other forms of assistance such as cash grants for utilities, health insurance coverage, or housing support, which do not address food purchasing directly and thus are unrelated to SNAP's mission and functions.