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Alabama DHR reviews SNAP history, average benefit levels and program evolution
Summary
DHR staff reviewed SNAP’s history in Alabama, the move from stamps to EBT, and current participation and benefit figures, noting average household benefits of about $392 and program shifts tied to federal rule changes.
Agency official reviewed the history and role of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program in Alabama, saying the program dates to early pilot efforts in 1939 and became permanent after federal action in the 1960s. The presenter described the program’s evolution from paper stamps to EBT and SNAP and emphasized its role in addressing hunger among children and older adults.
"The average household, $392.41. Average individual, $194.26 in June 2026," the Agency official said, summarizing the most recent benefit-amount figures provided to the board. The presentation also noted roughly 321,268 households and about 650,000 individuals currently receiving SNAP benefits in Alabama. The presenter said changes in federal policy have driven periodic expansions and contractions in participation, with sharp increases during the Great Recession and the pandemic.
The board discussed how benefit levels, caseload size and federal rules interact; presenters and board members stressed the program’s importance as a safety net and its particular reach to children and older adults. The board did not take formal action on benefit policy during the meeting.
