The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as the Food Stamp Program, is the nation’s leading food assistance and nutrition program. It provides financial assistance to Americans living close to the poverty level to help with the purchase of food. This past year, SNAP set a record for the number of Americans participating in the program: just over 40 million, roughly 12% of the entire population of the United States.

We’ve compiled information on the SNAP program for you to explore—from its history, to Frequently Asked Questions, to the economics and nutritional aspects of the program.

A true debate about the future of SNAP comes from an informed discussion of why the program was established, its accomplishments over the years and the role it plays today. So take a look around, and share your perspectives on SNAP on our Facebook Forum and blog.