Misconceptions about Food Insecurity

What do people get wrong about hunger? From who experiences hunger to how food assistance programs work, the truth may surprise you. We took a closer look at some common misconceptions—and the facts that reveal what hunger really looks like in communities across the Commonwealth.

MYTH: Food assistance programs are overused.
FACT: Food assistance programs are likely underused.

MYTH: Food insecurity is a personal failure.
FACT: Food insecurity stems from systemic issues like housing, wages, healthcare, and racial inequalities–not personal choices.

MYTH: Food assistance programs provide “handouts” to people who don’t want to work.
FACT: Most individuals experiencing food insecurity in MA are employed.

MYTH: Hunger is obvious. You can tell who’s food insecure by their appearance or where they live.
FACT: Food insecurity can affect anyone–students, seniors, families, professionals–and it’s rarely visible.

MYTH: Food assistance programs do not make a real difference.
FACT: The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is a lifeline for many. In fact, according to our 2025 Statewide Study on Hunger, 87% of Massachusetts residents who use SNAP say it helps their household.

Food insecurity is often misunderstood, and misconceptions can stand in the way of real solutions. It’s critical that we know what hunger looks like in our communities, which is why each year we conduct a statewide study to get the facts about hunger, and use this data to identify and implement meaningul and lasting solutions that will help end hunger here.