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2022-2023

Methods

Caregivers:

  • 19 focus groups
    • 15 English, 4 Spanish
    • 113 participants
    • 90 min each
    • completed April – June 2023
    • conducted by: The Melior Group

County SNAP Administrators

  • 5 interviews
    • 3 online, 2 in-person
    • 45-60 minutes each
    • completed April-June 2023
    • conducted by: The Melior Group

Schools:

  • 6 districts, selected on varying factors: geographic reach, ethnic and racial diversity, SNAP eligibility, rates of free and reduced meal participation

This study was approved by Rutgers IRB.

Findings

Caregiver Focus Groups Identified Issues

  • Awareness and understanding of SNAP:
    • Unfamiliar with SNAP,
    • Unaware of the $95 month minimum

     

  • SNAP application process:
    • Do not want to apply because of family or friends’ poor experience
    • Felt it was intrusive
    • Challenging relationship with Board of Social Services (BSS)
    • Translation concerns for Spanish speaking applicants

County SNAP Administrator Identified Issues

  • SNAP eligibility:
    • Federal Poverty Level is too restrictive for cost of living in NJ
    • Issues in the SNAP application process
    • Concerns about backlog
    • Requested up to date electronic verification and internal systems
    • Language and comprehension barriers

Proposed Solutions

  • Increase SNAP promotion
  • Ensure all outreach is accurate
  • Streamline the SNAP process
  • Promote SNAP in schools

2023 SNAP Gap Report