Preparing for the ARRA SNAP Cuts: All Massachusetts SNAP Households to Suffer SNAP Cut in November

The graphic below from the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities highlights the impact of the SNAP cut starting November 1st. See also August 2013 CBPP analysis of cuts by state. 

 

We urge Coalition members to take every opportunity to talk with SNAP recipients about the impact of the upcoming SNAP cut.  It is important to both make sure that households are receiving maximum amount of SNAP to which they are entitled, and have information on where they can get additional food resources. 

 

Attached is an ARRA fact sheet prepared by MLRI's AmeriCorps Member, Vicky Negus (inspired by materials from End Hunger Vermont). 

 

Feel free to share this fact sheet with local food pantries, health centers and community organizations that assist with SNAP applications.  As we learn more about how DTA will be implementing the SNAP cut, the types of client notices being sent and the process for reporting changes in household expenses to maximize SNAP benefits, we will let you know. The ARRA implementation cuts will also be discussed at the September 24th SNAP Coalition meeting. 

 

Meanwhile, it is CRITICAL that members of Congress hear from you and your clients loud and clear: The November SNAP cuts will have a devastating impact on families already struggling to provide their families with the food they need on SNAP. Please contact Senators Warren and Markey and your U.S. Representative today:  Thank them for their votes against SNAP cuts in the past. Remind them that 1 in 9 Massachusetts residents still struggle with food insecurity. We need to keep the drum roll up, especially as Congress nears the end of the federal fiscal year. Our Massachusetts members of Congress have consistently fought to protect and defend the SNAP/food stamp program - let's keep it that way!!  

 

To keep informed on the 2013 Farm Bill deliberations and action steps, sign up for regular updates from the Food Research Action Center at www.frac.org    

 

REMINDER:  The NEXT Boston-based Food SNAP Coalition meeting is Tuesday, September 24th from 10 to Noon at St Francis House in Boston.