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THE NEW COMPANY TOWN: HOW YOUR TAXES SUBSIDIZE THE WAGES OF AMERICA'S LARGEST EMPLOYERS

A stunning GAO report reveals how millions of full-time workers at America's largest corporations rely on SNAP and Medicaid, creating a hidden taxpayer subsidy.

By Foodie Pundit Newsroom - Published - Updated - Section: Food Safety

THE NEW COMPANY TOWN: HOW YOUR TAXES SUBSIDIZE THE WAGES OF AMERICA'S LARGEST EMPLOYERS

Key points

  • An estimated 10.6 million working adults live in households receiving SNAP benefits, and nearly 14 million working adults are enrolled in Medicaid.
  • Workers in the food service industry are disproportionately likely to rely on public assistance programs like SNAP and Medicaid.
  • 46 major companies appeared as top employers of SNAP and Medicaid recipients in at least two states, and 17 of them are among the 50 largest Fortune 500 firms by employee count.
  • The majority of beneficiaries, about two-thirds, work full-time hours (35+ per week), challenging the narrative that recipients do not work.
  • While many work full-time hours, beneficiaries are less likely than other workers to maintain that schedule for a full 50-week year, pointing to job instability and inconsistent scheduling in low-wage industries.

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