Presents estimates that measure the need for the Food Stamp Program and the program's effectiveness in each state, by year from 1994 to 1998. Need for the program is based on estimated number of people eligible for food stamps; effectiveness is based on estimated food stamp participation rates,...

Of the 38 million people eligible for food stamps in an average month during 2004, 23 million (60 percent) chose to participate. Conversely, about 15 million eligible people did not participate. Participation by eligible children and individuals in the poorest households, as well as by TANF and...

Estimates state food stamp participation rates as of September 1999, as well as how these rates changed since September 1994. Reports that rates varied widely from state to state in 1999, with some rates under 50% and some over 70%, while the national rate was 57%. Also finds that participation...

Estimates and describes state food stamp participation rates as of September 1997 and changes in rates since September 1994. Discusses the effects of the strong economy and welfare reform on participation rates.

Notes that fewer people are now eligible for food stamps than in the past, but a higher proportion of those eligible chose to participate, and overall participation rates rose in 2000 after five years of decline. Although participation rates rose for most groups, they declined in 2000 for...

Estimates the need for food stamps and the Food Stamp Program's effectiveness from 1994 to 1999 in each state.