Enhancing the Effectiveness of the Texas SNAP Benefits Program

Shanterica Johnson

Prairie View A&M University

Dr. Jackson

SOWK Paper
 Table of Contents
CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION..........................................................................................................3
1.1 Background.......................................................................................................................................3
1.2 Problem Statement.............................................................................................................................4
1.3 Research Questions............................................................................................................................4
1.4 Significance of the Study...................................................................................................................5
1.5 Organization of the Proposal.............................................................................................................5
Chapter Two: Literature Review..................................................................................................................6
2.1 Introduction.......................................................................................................................................6
2.2 SNAP Food Assistance Program........................................................................................................6
2.3 Program Effectiveness.......................................................................................................................7
2.4 Research Gap.....................................................................................................................................9
Chapter Three: Methodology.....................................................................................................................10
3.1 Research Design..............................................................................................................................10
3.2 Population........................................................................................................................................11
3.3 Inclusion Criteria.............................................................................................................................11
3.4 Exclusion Criteria............................................................................................................................11
3.5 Sampling Strategy............................................................................................................................12
3.6 Instrumentation................................................................................................................................12
3.7 Survey Development.......................................................................................................................13
3.8 Validity and Reliability Assessment.................................................................................................13
3.9 Procedure and Time Frame..............................................................................................................14
3.9.1 Data Analysis............................................................................................................................14
3.9.2 Interpretation............................................................................................................................14
3.9.3 Expected Results.......................................................................................................................15
4.0 References...........................................................................................................................................16
 CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as the Food

Stamps program, is a federal assistance program in the United States designed to combat food

insecurity and improve nutrition among low-income individuals and families. This program

provides eligible participants with electronic benefit transfer (EBT) cards to purchase food items

such as fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and other essential groceries at authorized retailers

(USDA, 2021). In the 1960s, the federal government established the SNAP Benefits Program as

part of the Food Stamp Act of 1964 to provide eligible low-income individuals and families with

a means to purchase nutritious food items, thus reducing hunger and improving nutrition (USDA,

2021). The main objective of the Texas SNAP Benefits Program is to address food insecurity and

poverty because these are deeply interconnected challenges in many societies. The SNAP

Program in Texas has been pivotal to many vulnerable households hit by poverty and

unemployment in many ways. For instance, food insecurity in vulnerable families in Texas is

characterized by inadequate access to sufficient and nutritious food, which is often a

consequence of economic hardship. Progressive studies show that the Texas SNAP Benefits

Program has undergone significant changes over the past several years, adapting to the shifting

landscape of social welfare policies, economic conditions, and the needs of its beneficiaries

(Alawode et al., 2023). Federal policies and state-specific factors have mainly shaped this

evolution, and understanding this historical development is crucial for comprehending the

program's present structure and functioning. Given the program's fundamental importance in the

lives of many Texans, there is a for a comprehensive analysis that integrates historical
understanding to provide a holistic view of the program's effectiveness, identify areas for

improvement, and contribute to the ongoing discourse on social welfare policies.

1.2 Problem Statement

The Texas Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is vital in addressing food

insecurity and poverty in the United States. This program has long played a pivotal role in the

lives of low-income individuals and families within the state. The Texas SNAP Benefits

Program, like any social welfare initiative, has evolved, adapting to shifting societal dynamics

and changes in political landscapes (Long et al., 2014). This evolution has implications for the

program's structure, goals, and the population it serves. However, despite its undeniable

significance, a noticeable gap exists in the comprehensive examination of the Texas SNAP

Benefits Program. Thus, this study aims to understand how the program has transformed within

the broader societal and political context to understand its current relevance and effectiveness.

1.3 Research Questions

1. What are the key factors contributing to the variability in the impact of the Supplemental

Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) among different demographic groups in Texas?

2. Considering this variability, how can program design and implementation be tailored

better to meet the specific needs of diverse populations in Texas?

3. What barriers and challenges do Texan individuals and families face when accessing

SNAP benefits?

4. How effective are current outreach efforts, application processes, and administrative

procedures in addressing these barriers, and what areas can be improved to enhance

program access?
 5. How does participation in multiple social safety net programs, such as SNAP, Medicaid,

and housing assistance, impact eligible individuals' and families' overall well-being and

economic stability?

6. How can better understanding these program interactions inform more coordinated and

effective policies to support vulnerable populations?

7. How does the insight gained from this analysis inform recommendations for enhancing

the effectiveness and relevance of the Texas SNAP Benefits Program in addressing food

insecurity and poverty in the state today?

1.4 Significance of the Study

This research holds significant implications for policymakers, social welfare advocates, and

scholars. Understanding the Texas SNAP Benefits Program's development and current impact

can inform policy decisions, program improvements, and future research in social welfare and

food assistance programs.

1.5 Organization of the Proposal

This proposal is structured into three chapters. Chapter One discusses the background of the

study, research questions, and significance of the study. Chapter Two thoroughly reviews the

relevant literature, highlighting critical theories and findings on food assistance programs,

poverty alleviation, and program effectiveness. Chapter Three analyses this study's research

design, data collection, analysis, and expected outcomes.

 Chapter Two: Literature Review

2.1 Introduction

This chapter reviews the relevant literature on food assistance programs, poverty alleviation, and

program effectiveness. The literature provides a foundation for understanding the Texas SNAP

Benefits Program in the broader context of social welfare policies.

2.2 SNAP Food Assistance Program

Food assistance programs are crucial in combating the pressing issues of food insecurity and

poverty in the United States. Among these programs is the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance

Program (SNAP), considered America's most extensive social welfare program and integral in

providing essential nutritional support to low-income individuals and families (Gundersen et al.,

2017). The U.S. government has been funding the SNAP program to consistently address the

immediate needs of vulnerable populations while striving to enhance their long-term well-being

(Gundersen et al., 2017). Consequently, studies conducted over the years have consistently

highlighted the beneficial impact of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) on

individuals and families facing food insecurity and poverty. For instance, Nestle (2019) have

shown that SNAP effectively reduces food insecurity, ensuring eligible participants access to an

adequate and nutritious diet. By providing essential nutritional support, the program has helped

mitigate the risk of hunger and malnutrition among vulnerable populations, especially children,

the elderly, and individuals with disabilities.

Furthermore, Verghese et al. (2019) established SNAP's positive impact on its beneficiaries'

economic well-being. These findings revealed that the program serves as a critical buffer against

the adverse effects of economic hardship, helping households maintain financial stability

(USDA, 2021). SNAP benefits often free up limited financial resources that can be redirected
towards other essential needs, such as housing, healthcare, and education. This, in turn,

contributes to an overall improvement in the economic conditions of participating families.

Additionally, Nguyen et al. (2019) associated SNAP's interventions of alleviating immediate

food needs and enhancing economic well-being with long-term positive outcomes. These

findings are supported by Leung et al. (2022), who established that children with access to SNAP

benefits experience improved health and educational outcomes. Thus, SNAP's nutritional support

is linked to better health, reduced hospitalization rates, and enhanced cognitive development in

children.

2.3 Program Effectiveness

The extant literature has consistently shown that SNAP is pivotal in enhancing food security

among low-income households and improving their living standards. According to Alawode et al.

(2023), SNAP participation has significantly reduced the risk of food insecurity, ensuring that

eligible individuals and families have access to a stable and nutritious food supply (Gundersen et

al., 2017; Bitler & Hoynes, 2016). This finding indicates that the program effectively solves the

problem it intended to solve among vulnerable Americans. Additionally, Alawode et al. (2023)

have argued that the SNAP Program has positively impacted the economic well-being of its

beneficiaries. For instance, SNAP benefits have lifted many vulnerable households out of

poverty, alleviated them from financial strain, and reduced the need for other forms of public

assistance (Bitler & Hoynes, 2016). This economic stability extends to children in SNAP

households, contributing to their overall well-being and improved school performance (Almond

et al., 2011). Since the inception of the SNAP Program in the United States, research has shown

that the number of safe birth control measures has increased in the country (Allison, 2018). For

instance, Andreyeva et al. (2015) have demonstrated that access to SNAP benefits is associated
with improved birth outcomes, such as reduced birth weight and preterm births, particularly

among vulnerable populations because women have access to the required nutrition during and

after birth.

Additionally, Berkowitz et al. (2017) identified several vital educational benefits of SNAP

participation. They indicated that the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

positively influences the educational outcomes of children living in beneficiary households. This

revelation is supported by Durward et al. (2019), who indicated that SNAP participation

improves cognitive development in children, and adequate nutrition provided through the

program improves children´s cognitive functioning, including enhanced problem-solving skills,

memory, and language development. Besides, Engel Ruder (2020) has argued that the SNAP

Program has reduced educational disparities that often exist among low-income children. The

study has argued that by providing a nutritional safety net, the SNAP Program helps level the

playing field, thus ensuring that children from vulnerable households have a better chance of

succeeding academically. Furthermore, Gregory et al. (2013) have shown that children who had

access to SNAP benefits during their early years tend to achieve higher educational attainment

later in life than those without access. This ability is enhanced because these children are likely

to complete high school and pursue higher education, which can have long-term implications for

their economic well-being.

Other studies have shown that SNAP has served as an economic stimulus because each dollar

spent on the program generates a significant economic multiplier effect. In other words, this

program not only aids low-income households but also supports local economies by increasing

demand for food and related products (Bitler & Hoynes, 2016). The money spent on food items

makes money circulation faster from one sector to another, thus stimulating the entire economy.
These findings show the effectiveness of the SNAP program in addressing food insecurity,

improving economic well-being, enhancing health outcomes, and contributing to long-term

positive impacts on beneficiaries and society.

2.4 Research Gap

Although the extant literature has highlighted the positive impacts of the Supplemental Nutrition

Assistance Program (SNAP), there are still some research gaps and areas where further

investigation is needed. For instance, from the literature, the impacts of SNAP vary from one

demographic group to another and across states (Jilcott et al., 2011). In this regard, this study

seeks to identify the factors contributing to this variability and determine how program design

and implementation can be tailored to meet the needs of diverse populations better. Additionally,

the current literature must exhaustively analyze the barriers and challenges individuals and

families face in accessing SNAP benefits (Andreyeva et al., 2015). Thus, this research seeks to

investigate the effectiveness of outreach efforts, application processes, and administrative

procedures that can help identify areas for program improvement. Besides, the current literature

has indicated that SNAP often interacts with other social safety net programs. However, there is

scanty information on how participation in multiple programs, such as SNAP, Medicaid, and

housing assistance, impacts overall well-being and economic stability (Durward et al., 2019).

Thus, understanding these interactions can inform more coordinated and effective policies.

Technology has changed significantly since the 1960s, but the application process for the SNAP

Program remains unchanged in Texas State. Thus, research is needed on the effectiveness of

online application processes, digital payment methods, and technology-based outreach efforts in

improving access and participation rates.

 Chapter Three: Methodology

3.1 Research Design

This research on the Texas SNAP Benefits Program will employ a mixed-methods

approach to enable a comprehensive and multifaceted examination of the policy. The mixed-

methods design combines both qualitative and quantitative research methods, allowing for a

holistic understanding of the program's historical context, its current impact, and the exploration

of potential policy alternatives (Dannefer et al., 2015). For the qualitative data, the study shall

analyze the historical analysis of the Texas SNAP Benefits Program, which forms the essential

component for exploring the nuanced historical development of the policy, the underlying

motivations, and the broader societal and political context in which it has evolved (Dannefer et

al., 2015). Besides, the qualitative research will involve the in-depth examination of legislative

documents, government reports, and archival materials to uncover critical policy changes,

historical narratives, and their motivations. Additionally, quantitative methods will be employed

to conduct a systematic and statistically rigorous analysis of the program's current impact on

food security, economic well-being, and self-sufficiency among eligible participants (Nguyen et

al., 2019). This quantitative component is vital for providing empirical evidence and numerical

insights into the program's effectiveness. Data will be collected through structured surveys, and

advanced statistical techniques will be applied to identify patterns, correlations, and statistical

significance.

Integrating qualitative and quantitative data will be a key aspect of this mixed-methods

research. Qualitative insights from the historical analysis will inform the development of survey

instruments used in the quantitative component. Furthermore, qualitative findings may

contextualize and enrich the interpretation of quantitative results, providing a deeper

understanding of the policy's impact.

3.2 Population

The population for this research will encompass low-income individuals and families

residing within the state of Texas who meet the eligibility criteria for participation in the Texas

SNAP Benefits Program. This diverse population includes individuals of varying ages,

encompassing children, elderly individuals, and those living with disabilities.

3.3 Inclusion Criteria

Low-Income Individuals and Families: The primary inclusion criterion for this research

population is being classified as low-income according to the guidelines set forth by the Texas

SNAP Benefits Program. Low-income status is typically determined by assessing an individual's

or household's gross income at the federal poverty level (FPL). Those whose gross income

exceeds 165% of the FPL are eligible for participation.

Residence in Texas: Eligibility for participation is contingent upon individuals and

families residing within the geographical boundaries of the state of Texas. The research

population will include only individuals and households living within Texas.

All Age Groups: This research encompasses individuals and families of all age groups,

reflecting the inclusive nature of the Texas SNAP Benefits Program. Participants may include

children, adults, senior citizens, and individuals with disabilities.

3.4 Exclusion Criteria

There are no specific exclusion criteria for the research population. All eligible

individuals and families within Texas, as defined by the Texas SNAP Benefits Program

guidelines, will be considered for inclusion in this study.

3.5 Sampling Strategy

The study shall use a stratified random sampling method to ensure the representativeness

of the research population and facilitate both the historical analysis and the program outcomes

analysis. This approach will help capture the diversity of participants across demographics,

geographic regions within Texas, and varying durations of program participation (Nguyen et al.,

2019). The sample will be selected to encompass a cross-section of eligible individuals and

families who have received SNAP benefits within the past five years. By stratifying the sample,

the research aims to account for potential variations in program experiences and outcomes

among different demographic groups and geographic locations within the state (Nguyen et al.,

2019). The sample size will be determined through statistical power calculations, aiming to

achieve a confidence level of 95% and a margin of error of ±5%. This sampling strategy will

enable the researcher to draw valid inferences about the program's impact and collect a

representative dataset for analysis (Nguyen et al., 2019). By clearly defining the research

population and specifying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, the study ensures that the sample

selected for analysis accurately represents the eligible individuals and families participating in

the Texas SNAP Benefits Program, contributing to the research's validity and generalizability of

findings.

3.6 Instrumentation

Historical Analysis: This study will use content analysis techniques to systematically

examine and interpret legislative documents, government reports, and archival materials related

to the Texas SNAP Benefits Program (Gundersen et al., 2017). Content analysis will identify

fundamental policy changes, historical narratives, and contextual factors shaping the program's
evolution. This qualitative analysis will provide valuable insights into the policy's historical

development.

Program Outcomes Analysis: In contrast, the program outcomes analysis will use a

structured survey instrument designed explicitly for this research. The survey will serve as a vital

tool for collecting data directly from Texas SNAP beneficiaries, allowing for a comprehensive

assessment of the program's impact on critical constructs, including food security, economic

well-being, and self-sufficiency (Gundersen et al., 2017).

3.7 Survey Development

Construct Definition: The research team will define the specific constructs to be

measured before survey development. These constructs will align with the research objectives

and the desired outcomes, including assessing the program's effectiveness in addressing food

insecurity and poverty.

Item Generation: A set of survey items will be generated based on the defined

constructs. These items will be designed to capture relevant information and experiences of

SNAP beneficiaries, such as their access to food, economic conditions, and self-sufficiency

(Gundersen et al., 2017).

Pilot Testing: Before administering the survey to the target population, a pilot test will be

conducted with a small group of individuals demographically similar to the research population.

The pilot test aims to assess the clarity, comprehensibility, and appropriateness of survey items

(Gundersen et al., 2017). Feedback from pilot participants will be used to refine and improve the

survey instrument.
3.8 Validity and Reliability Assessment

Content Validity: The content validity of the survey will be assessed by experts in social

welfare policy and survey research. These experts will review the survey items to ensure they

effectively measure the intended constructs and are relevant to the research objectives

(Gundersen et al., 2017).

Construct Validity: Construct validity will be assessed by conducting factor analysis to

confirm that the survey items align with the underlying constructs they are designed to measure

(Gundersen et al., 2017).

Reliability: Reliability will be assessed through test-retest reliability, where a subset of

participants will complete the survey on two separate occasions, allowing for the evaluation of

the survey's consistency over time (Gundersen et al., 2017).

3.9 Procedure and Time Frame

The research will commence in December 2024 and conclude in April 2024. For the

historical analysis, archival research will be conducted at relevant government archives, libraries,

and online resources. Participants will be contacted through phone interviews or online surveys

for the program outcomes analysis. Informed consent will be obtained from all participants.

3.9.1 Data Analysis

Historical Analysis: Content analysis will analyze legislative documents and reports,

identifying fundamental policy changes and historical context.

Program Outcomes Analysis: Quantitative survey data will be analyzed using statistical

software. Descriptive and inferential statistics, such as regression analysis, will be employed to

determine the impact of SNAP benefits on various outcomes.

3.9.2 Interpretation

Anticipated outcomes will be interpreted in the context of the research questions. For

instance, the impact of SNAP benefits on food security and economic well-being will be

assessed, and the findings will be interpreted to answer the research question regarding program

effectiveness.

3.9.3 Expected Results

The research is expected to provide insights into the historical development of the Texas

SNAP Benefits Program and its effectiveness in addressing food insecurity and poverty. Desired

results will be discussed in the context of existing theories and literature, highlighting the policy

implications and significance of the work.

 4.0 References

Alawode, O., Humble, S., & Herrick, C. J. (2023). Food insecurity, SNAP participation and

glycemic control in low-income adults with predominantly type 2 diabetes: a cross-

sectional analysis using NHANES 2007–2018 data. BMJ Open Diabetes Research and

Care, 11(3), e003205.

Allison, T. (2018). Rethinking SNAP benefits for college students.

Almond, D., Hoynes, H. W., & Schanzenbach, D. W. (2011). Inside the war on poverty: The

impact of food stamps on birth outcomes. The review of economics and statistics, 93(2),

387-403.

Andreyeva, T., Tripp, A. S., & Schwartz, M. B. (2015). Dietary quality of Americans by

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program participation status: a systematic

review. American journal of preventive medicine, 49(4), 594-604.

Berkowitz, S. A., Seligman, H. K., Rigdon, J., Meigs, J. B., & Basu, S. (2017). Supplemental

Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) participation and health care expenditures among

low-income adults. JAMA internal medicine, 177(11), 1642-1649.

Bitler, M., & Hoynes, H. (2016). The more things change, the more they stay the same? The

safety net and poverty in the Great Recession. Journal of Labor Economics, 34(S1),

S403-S444.

Dannefer, R., Abrami, A., Rapoport, R., Sriphanlop, P., Sacks, R., & Johns, M. (2015). A mixed-

methods evaluation of a SNAP-Ed farmers' market–based nutrition education

program. Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior, 47(6), 516-525.

Durward, C. M., Savoie-Roskos, M., Atoloye, A., Isabella, P., Jewkes, M. D., Ralls, B., ... &

LeBlanc, H. (2019). Double Up Food Bucks participation is associated with increased

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Engel, K., & Ruder, E. H. (2020). Fruit and vegetable incentive programs for supplemental

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Jilcott, S. B., Wall-Bassett, E. D., Burke, S. C., & Moore, J. B. (2011). Associations between

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Nestle, M. (2019). The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): history, politics,

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Nguyen, T., Shih, M., Srivastava, D., Tirthapura, S., & Xu, B. (2019, March). Stratified random

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