Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in Central Indiana
SNAP is the nation’s most important and effective anti-hunger program It plays a critical role in reducing poverty, improving health and economic outcomes, supporting workers earning low wages, and serving as the first line of defense against hunger during economic downturns
Who Does SNAP Reach?
In September of 2025, SNAP was utilized by 149,506 individuals in UWCI’s 7county Service Area, about 8% of the total population. 610,700 Indiana residents, or 9% of the state population.
49% of SNAP participants in Central Indiana are in families with children
84%
31% of SNAP participants in Central Indiana are in households with someone 60+
47% of SNAP participants in Central Indiana are in households with members who have disabilities
29% of households receiving SNAP in Central Indiana were singlefemale-led households.
$13.64
The average assistance payment per Central Indiana household in September 2025 was $409.17, or $13.64 per day. SNAP is a relatively low-cost investment that helps households meet their nutritional needs.
SNAP Benefit to the Economy
The U S Department of Agriculture estimates that in a weak economy, $1 in SNAP benefits generates $1.50 in economic activity. Households receive SNAP benefits on electronic benefit transfer cards, which can be used only to purchase food at one of about 261,400 authorized retail locations around the country, including some 5,600 in Indiana. of families receiving SNAP in Central Indiana included at least one working adult in the past 12 months.
$29,784 The Median Household Income for a household receiving SNAP in Central Indiana.
1 in 7
Individuals in Central Indiana are experiencing food insecurity.
Black and Hispanic residents continue to be disproportionately affected, with rates of 19% and 21%, respectively, compared to 14% across UWCI’s service area Children are especially vulnerable, with nearly one in five experiencing food insecurity.
Sources: Indiana Family and Social Services Administration, Monthly Management Reports - September 2025, Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, Indiana Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Fact Sheet - January 2025, 2023 ACS 5-Year Estimates - Food Stamps/Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Feeding America - 2025 Map the Meal Gap United Way