This study examined the effect of food assistance on the dietary patterns of households in South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. Data was collected from 6,969 participants in the Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) and 3,552 participants in the Food Stamp Nutrition Education Program (FSNEP). EFNEP and FSNEP teach low-income families and youth how to make healthy food choices, prepare food safely, and reduce food insecurity. Findings indicate that there were relatively few differences in intake of food groups and selected nutrients between Food Stamp and non-Food Stamp households prior to educational intervention. Food Stamp recipients enrolled in EFNEP typically consumed more meat and fat, but less milk than non-Food Stamp recipients. Food Stamp recipients enrolled in FSNEP typically consumed more fat and energy than non-Food Stamp recipients. There were also relatively few differences in food-related behaviors between Food Stamp and non-Food Stamp households prior to educational intervention. Fewer Food Stamp recipients reported desirable food safety behaviors, but more Food Stamp recipients planned meals ahead of time and ran out of food before the end of the month. This study suggests that the provision of Food Stamps alone will not improve recipient food choices and food preparation practices. Based on a long history of positive dietary and food behavior improvement among EFNEP participants, it seems certain that Food Stamp recipients would benefit from a nutrition education program. (Contains 11 references.) (TD)