Abstract

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is the leading food and nutrition program intended to alleviate hunger and provide support to low-income families. Despite their prolific efforts, many low income/low access (LILA) recipients, particularly Black ones, experience barriers when it comes to food access. As a result of this, beneficiary populations resort to purchasing poor nutrient foods (sugar sweetened beverages, high sodium foods, more junk food items, etc), which increases the likelihood of negative health outcomes (obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, etc.). In this study, I examine the relationships between SNAP participation, food access and negative health outcomes among Black LILA populations in Georgia. I assert that both SNAP participation and food access are impacting the health outcomes of Black recipients in a negative way. I do so by employing a multi methods approach composed of both a Historical/Geographical analysis and multiple linear regressions. In addition, I define and operationalize two theoretical frameworks (Intersectionality and Critical Race Theory (CRT) that both provide a lens by which one is able understand the social phenomena behind these issues, and more importantly how/why they impact the lives of Black SNAP recipients over time. This independent study project addressed the connections between food assistance programs, distribution mechanisms, the infrastructure for access, and how all that determines food insecurity as a matter of public health priorities.

Advisor

Muñoz, Avi

Second Advisor

Bienvenu, Fiacre

Department

Africana Studies; Political Science

Disciplines

Other Political Science | Social Justice

Publication Date

2021

Degree Granted

Bachelor of Arts

Document Type

Senior Independent Study Thesis

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