Low Utilization of SNAP and TANF by EFNEP and WIC Participants

Abstract

To find if the full benefit of nutrition assistance programs are being utilized by eligible women already participating in EFNEP or WIC. Prior research with this population suggested that EFNEP and WIC participants are not pursuing other nutrition assistance programs that they could qualify for. Program outreach is imperative to reduce health disparities among limited-income populations. In 2011, 444 women aged 18 to 65 at EFNEP (41%), WIC (43%), and an unemployment center (16%) completed a self-administered survey on nutrition assistance program participation, demographics, USDA food security module, and the Bidimensional Acculturation Scale (BAS). Data was analyzed using descriptive statists and comparisons were made using Chi Square as appropriate. Seventy-two percent self-identified as Hispanic, 53% were non-US born, but only 38% were Hispanic dominant, with 23% bicultural by the BAS. Nearly half of all participants were food secure (51%). Significant differences in degree of food insecurity were seen by acculturation status with 8% of Hispanic dominant women having “very low food security” in contrast to 19% of English dominant women (p=0.003). Forty-seven percent received SNAP benefits, but more US born (54%) than non-US born (41%; p=0.004) used the program. Only 12% of all women used TANF with significantly more English dominant and US born women receiving funds (p=0.004). These findings suggest underutilization of SNAP and TANF by EFNEP and WIC participants. Greater efforts are needed to increase awareness of these resources across programs in addition to further analysis identifying barriers and motivators to participation.