Often referred to as SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), food stamps are a form of government assistance that provides eligible low-income individuals and families with financial aid to purchase food. In Hays, Kansas, food stamps can be used at authorized grocery stores and farmers’ markets to buy a variety of food items, including fruits, vegetables, meat, and dairy products.
Food stamps play a vital role in reducing food insecurity and its negative health and economic consequences. Studies have shown that SNAP participation is associated with improved dietary quality, reduced food insecurity, and lower rates of diet-related diseases such as obesity and diabetes. Additionally, SNAP generates significant economic benefits for local communities by boosting sales at grocery stores and supporting local agriculture.