food stamps

It was 62 years ago that President Lyndon B. Johnson made food stamps — now known as SNAP benefits — a permanent government program. But significant changes are coming.

Even if they’re employed, people eligible for SNAP benefits may struggle to prove they’re working enough hours to meet work requirements.

Retailers are facing restrictions on what products can be purchased using SNAP benefits and new requirements for what foods they should stock.

In January, five states enacted laws restricting people who receive food aid from buying sugary beverages and snacks. About a dozen more will follow suit later this year.

Food pantries say uncertainty around SNAP is driving more families to seek help.

The view from one location in Central California.

Plus, how communities are stepping up to feed their neighbors.

“Many of our food banks are currently distributing the food that they typically stockpile for the Thanksgiving and Christmas season,” said Arkansas Hunger Relief Alliance CEO Sylvia Blain.

Earlier this month, the USDA notified states they need to make big changes to SNAP eligibility, work requirements, and who’s covering all the costs.

SNAP, otherwise known as food stamps, only provides around $6 a day per person on average — and lawmakers recently moved to spend even less on the program.