Fact Check: "More than 1 in every 10 North Carolinians receive food stamps."
What We Know
The claim that "more than 1 in every 10 North Carolinians receive food stamps" can be evaluated through data provided by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) and the Food and Nutrition Service (FNS). As of recent reports, approximately 1.3 million individuals in North Carolina were receiving benefits from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which is commonly referred to as food stamps (NCDHHS). Given that North Carolina's population is estimated to be around 10.5 million, this translates to roughly 12.4% of the state's population receiving food stamps.
Additionally, the FNS data indicates that SNAP participation has fluctuated over the years, but the percentage of individuals receiving assistance has remained significant, particularly in times of economic hardship (FNS).
Analysis
The claim is supported by statistical data indicating that approximately 1 in 8 North Carolinians are currently receiving food stamps, which is slightly more than the 1 in 10 threshold mentioned in the claim. This data is derived from official state and federal reports, which are generally reliable sources for demographic and social service statistics.
However, it is important to note that the data collection methods have faced scrutiny. For instance, a technical issue in 2018 led to an under-reporting of participants in some cases, which could affect the accuracy of current statistics (NCDHHS). While the issue was addressed, it raises questions about the consistency and reliability of the data over time.
Moreover, the SNAP program is designed to assist low-income individuals and families, and participation rates can vary based on economic conditions, policy changes, and outreach efforts (FNS). Therefore, while the claim is statistically valid, it should be contextualized within the broader economic landscape of North Carolina.
Conclusion
The claim that "more than 1 in every 10 North Carolinians receive food stamps" is Partially True. The current data supports that approximately 12.4% of the population is receiving food assistance, which exceeds the claim's threshold. However, the reliability of the data is somewhat compromised by past reporting issues, and the context of economic conditions should also be considered when interpreting these statistics.
Sources
- FNS Caseload Statistics Reports | NCDHHS
- SNAP Data Tables | Food and Nutrition Service
- NC DHHS: Food and Nutrition Services Food Stamps
- SNAP Household Characteristics Dashboard - USDA Food and Nutrition Service
- SNAP Data: State-By-State Statistics (Updated: February 2025) - Food Research & Action Center
