The Food Stamp Plan was abolished nationwide in 1943 after employment stabilized and food surpluses dwindled. By the time that the federal government called an end to the Food Stamp Plan, the popular program had been active in all 67 counties in Florida, and is credited with feeding over 41 percent of Florida’s residents during one of the bleakest economic times in the state. Although the end of the program in Florida created hardship among former participants, many households of color were never able to participate in the first place because they could not afford to purchase stamps, a prerequisite to participating in the program.
1943 – Nationwide End of Food Stamp Plan Creates Hardship
Newspaper article from 1943 with the headline, “Food Stamps Good Until March 31”