Characteristics of Georgia Food Pantry Clients That Receive Government Food Assistance

Background While initially created as a temporary community resource for emergency food needs, the charitable food system is a regular food source for many low-income Americans. Little is known about the characteristics of statewide charitable food program clients, including those receiving government food assistance benefits (eg, SNAP, WIC). Objective To describe characteristics of charitable food program clients that receive government food assistance programs in Georgia. Study Design, Settings, Participants We conducted a cross-sectional online or paper survey in a convenience sample of adult clients from 165 select charitable food programs (N=1,746, mean age: 51.4±16.5 years, 75.3% female, 51.1% African American) as part of the Georgia Hunger Study, a statewide mixed methods needs assessment. The survey was pilot-tested and offered in English and Spanish. Measurable Outcome/Analysis We assessed sociodemographic characteristics, financial hardship, food insecurity, and participation in and barriers to using SNAP. Descriptive statistics were analyzed. Results About 45% of clients reported receiving assistance from at least one government food assistance program; SNAP being the most frequently used (38.9%). Those receiving both government and charitable food assistance were more likely to be younger, have households with children, and complete at least some college than those receiving charitable food assistance only. They also reported higher levels of food insecurity and tradeoff decisions between food and other necessities. More than half reported these programs did not meet their food needs. About 44% of those using only charitable food assistance had previously applied for SNAP. Key reported barriers to using SNAP include inadequate benefits amounts, income and asset ineligibility, and complicated application processes. Conclusions While most charitable food assistance clients applied for or received government food assistance, many struggle to meet their food needs. Findings suggest the need to improve the adequacy, delivery, and coordination of government and charitable food assistance programs. Funding USDA, Georgia Department of Human Services