Year: 2025
Type: review
Abstract: Background It is estimated that 47% of the global population cannot afford a healthy diet. The number of individuals facing food insecurity and hunger is rising, leading to an economic and food crisis. Food assistance programmes (FAPs) play a vital role in providing a safety net for individuals and families, significantly impacting their well-being. Therefore, the study aims to understand the overall impact of FAPs on secondary economic indicators. Methods A systematic review was conducted to identify relevant literature. PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane, and JSTOR databases were used. The search scope encompassed peer-reviewed journal articles published in English and Portuguese between 2013 and March 2023. Results The search yielded 4,189 articles, of which 13 met the inclusion criteria and covered different forms of FAPs across the USA, UK, Rwanda, and East Africa. Most studies employed quasi-experimental designs, while two employed cluster randomized trials and three employed quantitative methodologies. Eleven studies were assessed to be of moderate quality. The various forms of FAPs included in the review were found to have complex effects on different outcomes. However, FAPs was found to have a positive impact on increasing employment and total income for households. Conclusions When effectively designed and implemented, FAPs have the potential to break the cycle of poverty. They address immediate food insecurity and promote economic stability for families. By improving access to nutritious food, supporting educational outcomes, and increasing employment opportunities, FAPs can contribute to long-term poverty relief efforts. Key messages • Economic Empowerment and Stability: Effective food assistance programs can break the cycle of poverty by addressing food insecurity and promoting economic stability for families. • Complex Effects on Employment: The review highlights that FAPs have complex and conflicting effects on labour supply and employment, with varying impacts across different population segments.
Authors: O Boghenco, C Millett
Institution: Universidade Nova de Lisboa
Language: English
Subfield: General Health Professions
Field: Health Professions
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,181
OpenAlex ID: W7101448020
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