SNAP and Health  

At Community Action Coalition (CAC), we understand that food security is the foundation for a healthier, more prosperous life. Through programs like Double Dollars and SNAP, we are working to ensure that low-income families and individuals not only have access to food but also to the kind of nutritious food that can transform their lives.

The Health Risks of Food Insecurity

Food insecurity is more than just a lack of food; it’s a risk factor for a host of adverse health outcomes. When individuals struggle to access adequate food, it complicates their ability to manage illnesses and often leads to higher healthcare costs. According to Carlson and Llobrera (2022), people who experience food insecurity—those lacking consistent access to enough food due to limited resources—spend roughly 45 percent more on medical care annually than those in food-secure households. Extensive research highlights a strong correlation between food insecurity and chronic health conditions across all age groups, including children, adults, and the elderly.

SNAP: A Lifeline for Health and Well-Being

SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) plays a critical role in combating food insecurity. By improving access to food, SNAP significantly reduces the prevalence of food insecurity, lowering it by as much as 30 percent. The impact is even more pronounced among children in families that otherwise might have to skip meals or eat less during the year due to financial constraints.

The benefits of SNAP extend beyond just providing food. It offers recipients the ability to purchase healthier diets, freeing up resources that can be used for health-promoting activities and essential medical care. SNAP participants report better current and long-term health outcomes compared to their low-income counterparts who do not participate in the program. For example, early access to SNAP among pregnant mothers and young children has been linked to improved birth outcomes and long-term health benefits in adulthood.

Double Dollars: Doubling the Impact of SNAP

At CAC, we amplify the impact of SNAP through our Double Dollars program. This initiative doubles the value of SNAP benefits at participating farmers markets, allowing families to buy more fresh fruits, vegetables, and other nutritious foods. By making healthy food more affordable, Double Dollars not only enhances food security but also contributes to better health outcomes for participants.

Programs like Double Dollars are essential in supporting the elderly, who are often at higher risk of food insecurity. Elderly SNAP participants are less likely than similar non-participants to forgo their full prescribed dosage of medicine due to cost. Moreover, SNAP helps older adults maintain their independence, reducing the likelihood of hospitalization and enabling them to live healthier lives within their communities.

Reducing Healthcare Costs and Strengthening Communities

The benefits of SNAP and Double Dollars extend to the broader community by reducing healthcare costs. SNAP participation is linked with better access to preventive healthcare, such as regular doctor visits for children, and lower overall medical expenses. Carlson and Llobrera’s research shows that low-income adults participating in SNAP incur nearly 25 percent less in medical care costs per year than non-participants, with even greater savings for those with conditions like hypertension and coronary heart disease.

These programs directly support CAC’s mission to transform communities by fostering conditions where everyone can achieve social and economic security. By providing access to healthy food, SNAP and Double Dollars not only improve individual health but also contribute to a stronger, more resilient community.

Get Involved and Learn More

Programs like SNAP and Double Dollars are vital in reducing healthcare costs and improving community health. To learn more about the positive impact of these programs, check out the research by Carlson and Llobrera here. Stay active in your government to advocate for policies that foster growth and well-being in our community.

---

References
Carlson, S., & Llobrera, J. (2022). SNAP Is Linked With Improved Health Outcomes and Lower Health Care Costs. Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. Retrieved from https://www.cbpp.org/research/food-assistance/snap-is-linked-with-improved-health-outcomes-and-lower-health-care-costs

FoodWIse Seasonal Availability of Wisconsin Vegetables chart

Harvest of the Month: Peppers