Why is the Food Stamp Program Important? What makes it unique?
The Food Stamp Program is the only federal benefit program available nationwide to all who need it and meet eligibility standards, regardless of their age or family composition. The Food Stamp Program is effective and well-targeted; only people who are poor with few, if any, assets can receive food stamps. And, food stamp benefits, issued on a monthly basis, can only be used for the purchase of food. Another important and unique aspect of the Food Stamp Program is its ability to respond to changing needs caused by economic cycles or natural emergencies on the local, state and national levels. This means when need increases or decreases, the funds for the program respond accordingly. It is second only to unemployment insurance in its responsiveness to economic changes.
