Sociodemographic correlates of and barriers to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) participation: implications for public health research

This study examines sociodemographic characteristics associated with Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) participation and barriers to enrollment among low-income households in Massachusetts. Using data from a large statewide survey (December 2021–February 2022), multivariable logistic regression assessed correlates of participation. Respondents with greater food insecurity, lower income, children, larger household size, or who identified as disabled, non-Hispanic Black or Hispanic had higher odds of participation. Enrollment barriers included a desire for self-sufficiency, fear of depriving others, and stigma. These findings suggest that lower income households may delay benefit enrollment until needs become too great to be met by other means.