Economic Assistance

Tracy Roof, associate professor of political science, is currently studying the history of America's food stamp program. At a time when unemployment is at an all time high, Roof can discuss how government assistance programs like SNAP have historically benefit those in need as well as the economy.

"After the COVID-19 pandemic hit, the number of people enrolled in SNAP soared again. Spending on the program surged even more because the government temporarily let all beneficiaries get the maximum amount of benefits," said Roof.

"Government aid through SNAP totaled a record US$85.6 billion in the 12 months that ended Sept. 30, 2020. That money helped feed around 44 million people, up from 35 million a year earlier."

Contact Sunni Brown, director of media and public relations, at sbrown5@richmond.edu to connect with Roof.