Nebraska food insecurity worsens after SNAP work requirement changes

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 22 Oct, 14:51 · Archive

Food insecurity in Nebraska has reached crisis point a year after new work requirements and eligibility restrictions for food assistance took effect.

A year after H.R. 1, the 'One Big Beautiful Bill Act', introduced new work requirements and eligibility restrictions for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, advocates say food insecurity in Nebraska is nearing crisis point. Nebraska Appleseed hosted a virtual roundtable this week with food banks and organisations to discuss rising food insecurity across the state.

Joan Jakoubek, a Navy veteran and mother of two, said the new SNAP rules require veterans to work 80 hours a month to be eligible for food assistance. She works only 15 hours a week, the maximum her employer offers, and said: 'The reality is I'm still having to choose between food and rent.' She relies on food pantries and housing through the Veterans Affairs but still struggles to afford groceries.

The Food Bank of Lincoln has seen a 45% increase in people served compared with five years ago. President and chief executive Michaella Kumke said the organisation can meet current needs, but rising costs and increased demand are putting pressure on resources. 'We are able to meet the need in this moment; it's our concern that if the need continues at this rate,' she said.

How it is being reported

• Nebraska food insecurity reaches crisis point a year after SNAP changesA year after H.R. 1, known as the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” led to new work requirements and eligibility restrictions for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, advocates say food insecurity is nearing a crisis point in the state.WOWT · 22 Oct, 13:46
• Nebraska food insecurity reaches crisis point a year after SNAP changesA year after H.R. 1, known as the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” led to new work requirements and eligibility restrictions for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, advocates say food insecurity is nearing a crisis point in the state.1011Now · 22 Oct, 13:46

In this story: Nebraska · Nebraska Appleseed · Food Bank of Lincoln · Joan Jakoubek · Michaella Kumke

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