| Detailed Objective: American Indians are more likely than other Americans to be poor, unemployed, food insecure, hungry, obese, and diabetic. National surveys on food program use and nutritional status provide limited information about American Indians and Alaska Natives, because of their relatively small numbers and dispersed population. This project summarizes prior research and existing data sources on the use and impact of food assistance programs on Indian reservations. The study focuses on four programs operated by the USDA's Food and Nutrition Service (FNS): the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR), the Food Stamp Program (FSP), the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), and the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP).
The study will examine existing data sources, including both survey and administrative data, and review previous research studies, including studies pertaining to particular tribes or geographic regions. The study will identify data sources as well as information gaps and provide suggestions for improving data sources and furthering research on this topic. Results from this study will help inform decisions by USDA on future efforts to collect data and support research about these food assistance programs. |