SNAP Benefits End This Month for Thousands of Low Income Families

(KNSI) — Families on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, will see cuts to their benefits after this month as the temporary emergency benefits that helped low-income Minnesotans buy food during the COVID-19 pandemic are ending.

Most SNAP recipients were eligible for emergency allotments. They received an additional $95 in benefits or an additional benefit valued up to the maximum benefit for their household size, whichever was greater. Returning to normal benefit amounts in April comes as households grapple with higher grocery costs. Ailen Arreaza of the national advocacy group ParentsTogether, says their recent survey shows many families are juggling several expenses.

“Sixty-four percent of families are saying that they are having trouble making ends meet right now. And the biggest challenges are paying for things like diapers, formula, paying for utilities, paying for housing.”

The cuts will be between roughly $90 and $250.

“These types of benefits – that help families, that help kids thrive, that put food on the table for hungry kids – this is something that families deserve,” said Arraza.

Hunger Solutions Minnesota urges these households to learn their monthly amount going forward. They can check online or contact their county office that processes applications. Recipients also are encouraged to see if changes in their economic status would boost their aid level.

Since March 2020, when Congress approved the Family First Coronavirus Act, $1.3 billion in emergency SNAP benefits have gone to more than 350,000 Minnesota households.

“That extra support during the pandemic was a welcome relief for people who count on SNAP,” said Human Services Commissioner Jodi Harpstead. “We know that many Minnesotans still struggle to put food on the table. Without the additional federal benefits, that will become even more difficult.”

Resources for food aid can be found on the Department of Human Services website here.

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MNC Reporter Mike Moen contributed to this report.

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