Process Evaluation of Enhanced SNAP Benefits on Virginia Fresh Match Outlets and Consumer Well-Being Amid the Pandemic

Abstract

Objective

To describe the implementation and process evaluation of Virginia Fresh Match (VFM) Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) nutrition incentives during the COVID-19 pandemic years 2021 and 2022 and how VFM benefits helped families sustain during the pandemic.

Use of Theory or Research

During the pandemic, the federal government temporarily increased SNAP benefits. However, with strain on the food system, access to outlets that accept SNAP may be limited. Little is known about the efforts of SNAP nutrition incentive programs implementation and effectiveness during COVID-19.

Target Audience

Virginian SNAP recipients and VFM outlets offering nutrition incentives.

Program Description

VFM is a statewide network of community food outlets that offer nutrition incentives that double the value of Virginians’ SNAP benefits when used to purchase fruits and vegetables (FV).

Evaluation Methods

Outlet participation and SNAP incentive redemptions were tracked via Smartsheet. Paper versions of the Nutrition Incentive Program Training, Technical Assistance, Evaluation, and Information Center (NTAE) core metrics survey, with additional VFM-specific questions, were used to collect data from SNAP participants (n=107).

Results

Between 2021 and 2022, VFM increased the number of participating outlets from 83 to 117 (41% increase) with a 26.5% increase in the number of participating farmers. There was a 30% increase in incentive redemptions between 2021 ($633,000) and 2022 ($823,000). Between 2021 and 2022, 69% of shoppers worried about having enough food. COVID-19 made it harder to make ends meet (59%) and eat fresh produce (47%). A total of 94% of shoppers bought more produce because of VFM, and 92% used all their VFM funds. A majority (96%) reported positive or very positive experiences with VFM and 97% would use more VFM funds if available.

Conclusions

The increase in incentive redemptions demonstrates VFM's success in meeting community needs during the pandemic. There was increased purchasing power of FV as nearly all shoppers used the funds allocated to them, indicating the successful implementation of VFM.

Funding

NIFA, Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services