(OR23-03-23) The SNAP for U Study: Using a Formative Approach To Inform a SNAP Intervention Targeting Midwestern College Students

Objectives: This study used an exploratory approach to formulate intervention strategies for increasing Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) knowledge, use, and enrollment among Midwestern college students.

Methods: Three college stakeholder groups [college students, college administrators, and nutrition program associates (NPAs)] in a single Midwestern state were targeted in a mixed-methods observational study via online surveys, focus groups, and semi-structured interviews.

Results: Students (n=844 participants) indicated top barriers to utilizing SNAP were: (1) lack of knowledge (2) not being eligible and (3) negative stigma associated with SNAP use. Additional barriers mentioned by students across four focus groups (n=26 participants) included not knowing eligibility criteria, challenging enrollment process, and lack of systems on college campuses to aid in enrollment and use of SNAP benefits. Top perceived facilitators for enrolling in and using SNAP included (1) university assistance, (2) campus resources, and (3) easy ways to determine eligibility. Preliminary survey data from college administrators and NPAs indicated main barriers to assisting students with SNAP were lack of knowledge, belief that students were not eligible for SNAP benefits, and negative stigma surrounding students using SNAP benefits. Semi structured interviews (n= 5 administrators and n=5 NPAs) identified themes of a need for increased knowledge and awareness of SNAP eligibility and application among college students, university personnel, and NPAs and a need for universities to play a key role in to offering SNAP education, awareness, and application assistant to their students.

Conclusions: Findings based on the perspective of key stakeholders demonstrate the need for a tailored, on-campus, SNAP intervention approach aimed at increasing knowledge and awareness among both college students, administrators, and SNAP enrollment personnel like NPAs in a coordinated dissemination effort. Campus-wide initiatives designed for college students, available through on-campus departments, supported by student peers, and disseminated via acceptable platforms has the potential to impact SNAP enrollment rates among college students contributing to increased food security.

Funding Sources: Fahs-Beck Fund and the Missouri Foundation for Health.