In 2024, a Georgia Budget and Policy Institute poll revealed significant challenges faced by many Georgians in affording the cost of food. This poll shed light on various aspects related to food affordability and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

Unfairness of Cutting SNAP

A substantial 84% of respondents firmly believed that cutting SNAP at a time when food prices are high is unfair to those who are food insecure. This sentiment was echoed across ideology and political parties. For instance, 80% of Republicans, 88% of Democrats, and 81% of Independent respondents all agreed with this idea. SNAP plays a crucial role in providing food assistance to low-income Georgians who struggle to afford food. It not only helps them put food on the table but also has a positive impact on their health and long-term success. 1: SNAP reduces food insecurity by about 30%, as research shows. This means that it makes a significant difference in the lives of those who rely on it. By providing financial support for food, SNAP enables individuals and families to meet their basic nutritional needs. It helps them avoid the stress and anxiety that comes with not having enough to eat. 2: The program also supports local economies throughout Georgia. With about 10,000 SNAP retailers across the state, in federal fiscal year 2024, approximately $3 billion in federally-funded SNAP benefits flowed into these retailers. This infusion of funds has a ripple effect, boosting local businesses and creating jobs. It shows how SNAP is not just about providing food but also about contributing to the overall well-being of the community.

Income and Region Differences in Food Affordability

More than 50% of respondents admitted to having a challenge affording the cost of food in the last 12 months. This was the highest response percentage compared to other essentials. Interestingly, those with less than $25,000 a year in annual income and residents in South Georgia faced even greater difficulties. Over 60% of these respondents had a challenge affording food in the past 12 months. This highlights the disparity in food affordability based on income levels and geographical locations. 1: The economic situation in different regions and income brackets clearly affects people's ability to afford food. In South Georgia, where the cost of living may be higher or resources more limited, a larger percentage of respondents struggled to make ends meet. Similarly, those with lower incomes had a more difficult time affording food, as their financial resources were already stretched thin. 2: These findings emphasize the need for targeted support and policies to address food insecurity in specific areas and among specific income groups. It is essential to understand the unique challenges faced by different communities and work towards finding solutions that can make a real difference in people's lives.

Worries about Running Out of Food

About 48% of respondents said that they sometimes or often worried in the past 12 months that they would run out of food before having money to buy more. People with the lowest incomes had the highest responses, indicating that they were more likely to face this concern on a regular basis. 1: This worry about running out of food is a real and pressing issue for many Georgians. It can lead to stress, anxiety, and even health problems. SNAP plays a vital role in alleviating this worry by providing a safety net and ensuring that people have access to food when they need it. 2: The fact that a significant percentage of respondents expressed this concern highlights the importance of continuing to support and strengthen SNAP. By doing so, we can help alleviate the stress and uncertainty associated with food insecurity and provide a more stable life for those who need it most.In conclusion, the Georgia Budget and Policy Institute poll has brought to light the challenges faced by Georgians in affording food and the importance of SNAP in addressing these issues. It is clear that more needs to be done to ensure that everyone has access to the food they need to thrive.