What does this measure?

The average number of people receiving food stamps each month, expressed as a rate per 1,000 residents.

Why is this important?

The food stamps program provides government funding for low-income people to buy food. It therefore indicates how many people in a region cannot support themselves at a basic level.

How is the Greater Capital Region performing?

In 2008, 70 out of every 1,000 residents of the Greater Capital Region received food stamps, a dramatic increase of 55% over the level in 2000. Reliance on food stamps was highest in Schenectady County and grew the fastest in Schenectady, Saratoga and Rensselaer counties. The regional rate was below the state rate of 105, which was up 45% from its 2000 level.

Notes about the data

CGR calculated rates using population estimates from the Census Bureau. Comparable national data were not available.