By Ethan Watters

Drastic changes may be on the horizon for SNAP—here’s what you need to know.

SThe landscape of food assistance programs is evolving, with changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) sure to affect our local community. Recent research and policy proposals offer insights into what lies ahead. Here are some items to note:

  • Changes to the SNAP benefits are currently being debated at the federal level. The new administration has promised broad changes to numerous government programs including food assistance. While republican lawmakers have earmarked SNAP for cuts, no changes have become law as of yet. Non-partisan policy groups have raised concerns about potential upcoming changes to federal assistance programs, warning of possible increases in child poverty and homelessness.
  • Broader Impacts: Recent academic research underscores SNAP’s significance beyond immediate food security. A comprehensive review in the Maternal and Child Health Journal, analyzing 46 academic papers, revealed that SNAP benefits contribute to improved mental health outcomes for both parents and children. This finding adds to a growing body of evidence supporting the program’s broader positive impacts on recipient families.
  • Free school breakfast and lunch programs may also lose funding.The House Ways and Means Committee has proposed $12 billion in cuts to school lunch programs. The proposals would likely reduce the number of schools able to offer free meals and impose income verification paperwork requirements that would reduce participation.
  • Social Security Adjustments. Social Security recipients will see a 2.5% cost of living increase in 2025, raising the average monthly payment to $1,976.

As changes unfold, our community must stay informed and prepared to adapt to shifting policies while continuing to support those facing food insecurity.

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