The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA

Abstract #48069

Sharon Sugerman, MS, RD, FADA¹, Michelle Oppen, MPH, CHES¹, Regino Chavez, MA², and S.B. Foerster, MPH, RD³. (1) Cancer Prevention and Nutrition Section, Public Health Institute, 601 N 7th Street, PO Box 942732, MS- 662, Sacramento, CA 94234-7320, 916-324-3059, ssugerma@dhs.ca.gov, (2) Consultant, 3536 Parrish Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90065, (3) California Department of Health Services, Cancer Prevention and Nutrition Section, PO Box 942732, MS 662, 601 N. 7th Street, Sacramento, CA 94234-7320

In 1999, only 45% of eligible Californians participated in a state or federal Food Stamp Program (FSP). Increased program participation could improve dietary quality and reduce food insecurity. Focus groups are a structured, facilitated discussion. The group conversational format enables participants to express complex thoughts and ideas about a topic. In August 2001, the Cancer Prevention and Nutrition Section of the California Department of Health Services conducted 10 focus groups with 85 low-income women and men to examine the barriers, potential facilitators, and other issues relating to usage of Food Stamps. Group members all had incomes below $20,000. All lived in households with children under age 18; 30% of households took part in the WIC program, while nearly half had children enrolled in the free/reduced price school meal program. Almost 60% were Hispanic; 36% of participants met in groups conducted in Spanish. Lack of knowledge about the FSP, lack of perceived personal need, misperceptions about the consequences of participation, and customer service concerns were the major barriers identified. Hispanic participants were particularly likely to express misinformation. Focus group participants suggested innovative ways to increase FSP awareness, improve the application process, and attract applicants. Methodology, findings, and implications for local, state, and federal policy and operational changes designed to lead to increased participation will be discussed.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session the participants should be able to

• Identify three barriers to Food Stamp Program participation by working poor in California.
• Discuss potential strategies for increasing participation in the Food Stamp Program

Keywords: Food Security, Family/Consumer Perspective

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: USDA Food Stamp Program; California Food Stamp Program
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.