Project Description

This study evaluates the effects of state-level Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) expansions during COVID-19 on food insecurity among children of immigrants (COI) and examines how factors including race/ethnicity, immigrant generation, and socioeconomic status shape policy effectiveness. COI experience disproportionately high rates of food insecurity due to systemic barriers, including restrictive eligibility rules and structural xenophobia, which limit access to critical resources. These disparities contribute to a widening gap between COI and their peers from U.S.-born families in academic and social outcomes. While SNAP expansions provided temporary relief during the pandemic, the generosity of these policies varied widely across states, and food insecurity persisted as benefits were rolled back. Findings from this project will offer actionable insights to inform the design of equitable and effective SNAP policies, addressing food insecurity disparities and improving outcomes for COI and other vulnerable populations.