Proposed SNAP cuts could worsen food insecurity across New York

Millions of Americans may lose access to food assistance under President Donald Trump’s latest budget proposal, which includes deep cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). In New York, where food insecurity remains a persistent issue, advocates are sounding the alarm.

SNAP changes: Who could be affected?

More than 40 million Americans rely on SNAP, including nearly 3 million in New York State. Under the proposed plan—currently under review by the U.S. Senate—approximately 4 million people could lose benefits, according to an independent review.

The proposal calls for:

• Stricter work requirements for able-bodied adults without dependents
• Enhanced eligibility checks to reduce fraud
• Increased financial contributions from states to control federal costs

Rep. Nick Langworthy (R-NY-23) supports the plan, calling it “common sense” and emphasizing its focus on waste prevention.

Real consequences for New York families

For recipients like Donna Whitley, who uses SNAP to care for her disabled daughter, losing benefits could be devastating.

“If they cut your stamps, what are you going to do?” Whitley asked, speaking with Spectrum News. “We’re all going to be on the streets going through garbage cans.”

While she agrees reform is needed to prevent abuse, she expressed frustration that hardworking families often get left out.

“I’m working and we still don’t qualify because we make $7 over. It’s not fair,” she added in that interview.

Local groups step up to fight hunger

Nonprofits across the state are bracing for increased demand. In Utica, Compassion Coalition operates Bargain Grocery, a nonprofit market founded to address food deserts.

Their prices average about 25% of traditional grocery costs, helping stretch limited SNAP dollars further.

A bigger conversation about food access

As food prices remain high and federal aid programs face political scrutiny, advocates like Servello are calling for systemic change.

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