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The Receipt of Government Food Assistance: Differences Between Metro and Non-Metro Households

Author

Listed:
  • Robert B. Nielsen

    (University of Georgia)

  • Martin C. Seay

    (Kansas State University)

  • Melissa J. Wilmarth

    (University of Alabama)

Abstract

This research investigated differences in households’ receipt of government food assistance through such programs as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program; Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children; free and reduced school meals; and related local and/or federal programs. With panel data from the Survey of Income and Program Participation that span the Great Recession, differences in the receipt of government food assistance in metro and non-metro areas were identified. Longitudinal random effects models suggest that despite relatively similar levels of food insecurity in 2005 and 2010, a higher proportion of non-metro households received government food assistance. Results also suggest that this assistance gap widened post-recession when government resources were expanded. These results inform a continuing debate about the efficient allocation of resources intended to reduce food hardship disparities, and increase family economic well-being, in metro and non-metro areas.

Suggested Citation

  • Robert B. Nielsen & Martin C. Seay & Melissa J. Wilmarth, 2018. "The Receipt of Government Food Assistance: Differences Between Metro and Non-Metro Households," Journal of Family and Economic Issues, Springer, vol. 39(1), pages 117-131, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:kap:jfamec:v:39:y:2018:i:1:d:10.1007_s10834-017-9528-5
    DOI: 10.1007/s10834-017-9528-5
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    Keywords

    Food assistance; SNAP; WIC; Metro; Rural; SIPP;
    All these keywords.

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