Economic safety nets are programs designed to provide financial support to individuals and families during times of need. These can include unemployment benefits, food assistance, and housing subsidies, helping people maintain a basic standard of living when they face economic hardships. These safety nets aim to reduce poverty and inequality by ensuring that everyone has access to essential resources. Governments often fund these programs, which can vary widely between countries, reflecting different social policies and economic conditions. Examples of such programs include the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in the United States and various social welfare systems in European countries.