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This chart graphs the number of people living below the federal poverty level and the number who are receiving food stamps – supplemental nutrition assistance program (SNAP). To save space, three zeros have been removed from each number.  Counts are actually in millions.

The number of people receiving supplemental nutrition assistance (food stamps, WIC) has risen sharply in recent years, nearly doubling since September 2007, and now stands at more than 46,000,000 people.

According to the US Census Bureau, the number of people living below the federal poverty level has also risen sharply in recent years, and also currently stands at more than 46,000,000 people.

The data sets are from:

• U.S. Department of Agriculture Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (food stamps, WIC)
• U.S. Census Bureau – Table 2. Poverty Status, by…
• U.S. Social Security Administration – Disabled Workers