SNAP (food stamp) data through Sep 2009

You recall the dynamic chart showing each state's Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program participation (in percent, on the vertical axis) as a function of the state unemployment rate (in percent, on the horizontal axis). I just added the new fiscal year 2009 data (running from Oct 2008 to Sep 2009). Including the new year of economic crisis, the last few moments of this story make me jump out of my chair. Hit play.

Here is the national time series of monthly data.

Following on last month's maps of SNAP participation, a New York Times story this month provides more information about the central role of SNAP in the overall social safety net.