Healthy Food Purchase Comparison Between Welfare Participants and Non-Welfare Participants
Charmion Bell1, Tiarra McMillan2
1Mississippi INBRE Service Scholar, Mississippi Valley State University, Itta Bena, MS
2My Brother’s Keeper, Inc., Jackson, MS
Food security can be defined as a measure of the availability of food, affordability and accessibility. Approximately 20% of the population has been defined as being food insecure. Out of Mississippi’s 82 counties, 34 have a food insecurity rate higher than 22%. Within this state’s capitol, 61,000 residents lack access to fresh, affordable foods. While Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program can provide some help to individuals, many believe the aid is minimal. The purpose of this research is to examine the differences in food spending among individuals who are on government assistance. Using data from MBK’s Jump Start Jackson program, individuals were surveyed to determine the places they shop and their food choices. Data was extracted and entered into SPSS for analysis. Statistical analysis consisted of descriptive statistics, including frequencies and crosstabs analysis to compare those who are enrolled in government assistance programs to those who are not by examining the variety of foods they selected as common purchases in their homes. Using the snowball sample technique, it was determined, that of the 138 surveys completed for analysis, only 14%of the participants surveyed were enrolled in SNAP or WIC. However, participants enrolled in SNAP/WIC demonstrated healthier food choices than those who were not enrolled in the programs. Results concluded the government assisted participants in Jackson, MS were more likely to select healthier foods option compared to other participants. Future research should continue to examine the relationship between food access and healthy food knowledge among those on government assistance.