For millions of Americans living with chronic disease, good nutrition isn’t just about maintaining health, it’s part of their treatment plan. Access to healthy, affordable food can mean fewer hospital visits, more stable health outcomes, and a better quality of life. Yet for too many families, the cost of healthy food is out of reach. That’s where the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) steps in.
A Smart Investment in Health and Stability
Though some see SNAP as simply a safety net, it truly is a strategic investment in public health. Studies have shown that adults who participate in SNAP have lower health care costs and fewer emergency room visits related to diet-related conditions. Children in SNAP households are more likely to thrive in school, avoid chronic disease later in life, and grow into healthy adults. Every dollar spent on SNAP helps prevent higher costs down the line for hospitals, insurers, and taxpayers.
SNAP is also one of the most rigorously evaluated and efficiently managed public programs. More than 90% of SNAP benefits go directly to households that need them most, and participants who can work do. From an economic standpoint, SNAP is a powerful multiplier. Every dollar in SNAP benefits generates roughly $1.50 to $1.80 in local economic activity —supporting grocery stores, farmers, and food producers in communities across the country. In other words, SNAP doesn’t just help individuals, it strengthens local economies and helps small businesses thrive.
Food Is Medicine and Access Matters
Good nutrition is the foundation of good health. For people with chronic illnesses, the right foods can make the difference between stability and crisis.
- For a person with diabetes, access to fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins helps prevent dangerous blood sugar swings.
- For someone with heart disease, reducing sodium and increasing whole grains and fresh produce supports better cardiovascular health.
- For families managing autoimmune conditions or cancer recovery, adequate nutrition can mean fewer hospitalizations and faster recovery.
Supporting Dignity and Independence
Many Americans with chronic conditions want to work, care for their families, and live active, productive lives; but health challenges can make that difficult. SNAP helps fill the gaps when medical costs or physical limitations make it hard to afford groceries.
Especially for the many working people who depend on SNAP, it’s a bridge to better health. By helping people stay nourished and avoid preventable health crises, SNAP reduces emergency medical costs and supports independence.
What You Can Do
As federal and state leaders debate funding levels for SNAP, voices from the chronic disease community are vital. Join the Chronic Disease Coalition in calling on the Administration to immediately act on the congressional intent to fully fund SNAP, even during the government shutdown. Send a letter now!
You can also:
- Share your story. If SNAP has helped you or someone you love manage a health condition, speak up. Your story helps people understand the relationship between SNAP, nutrition and health.
- Support evidence-based policy. Encourage lawmakers to protect and strengthen programs that link nutrition and health.
- Spread awareness. Remind others that nutrition, especially for those with chronic diseases, is not optional — it’s essential health care for millions of Americans.