Proposed Federal SNAP Cuts Threaten Food Security for Thousands in Western Massachusetts
February 20, 2025
Media Contact: Deb Ondo, Communications and Engagement Manager, Food Bank of Western Massachusetts debo@foodbankwma.org Phone: 413-419-0170.
Proposed Federal SNAP Cuts Threaten Food Security for Thousands in Western Massachusetts
[Chicopee, MA] – The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), a lifeline for millions of low-income individuals and families, is facing potential federal budget cuts that could have devastating effects on food security across Western Massachusetts – and beyond. Soon, both the House and Senate will pass a series of budget resolutions with an eye on making significant funding cuts.
If enacted, any cuts to SNAP will not only diminish essential benefits for recipients but also place immense strain on the Western Massachusetts food assistance network, already struggling to meet an increase in demand due to the high price of food, housing, and transportation. Last October, the number of people seeking food assistance from our 193-member food pantries, meal sites, and shelters rose to 142,000, the most people ever served in one month in the Food Bank’s history.
There are approximately 113,000 households in the region that rely on SNAP benefits. Any proposed reductions to SNAP could overwhelm local food pantries and meal programs, leaving many without reliable access to nutritious food. SNAP brings approximately $35M in federal dollars to Western Massachusetts every month, and the economic impact of the program extends far beyond those who receive the benefits directly. Grocers, farmers, and other businesses also rely on those dollars. Without adequate funding, people needing food assistance and food suppliers will feel an impact.
“Cuts to SNAP funding will have a detrimental impact across the region,” said Christina Maxwell, Director of Programs at the Food Bank. “Our region’s food assistance network is strong, but if demand for food increases dramatically, we will need additional support to ensure people in our community have food when and where they need it.”
Take Action: Urge Congress to Protect SNAP
The Food Bank is calling on the public to contact their federal senators and representatives to voice their opposition to these harmful cuts. The House and Senate Committees on Agriculture, which oversee SNAP, must hear from constituents about the critical role this program plays in preventing hunger and supporting economic stability.
Additionally, we encourage individuals to reach out to friends and family in other states, urging them to also take action and contact their legislators. Grassroots advocacy is crucial in ensuring that SNAP funding remains intact.
SNAP: A Program Already Stretched Thin
Even without cuts, SNAP benefits are often insufficient to fully meet the nutritional needs of recipients. Any reduction in funding will exacerbate food insecurity, forcing more families to rely on emergency food aid that is already stretched to its limits. Cutting SNAP funding would create an unsustainable burden on local communities and service organizations, leaving many without adequate support.
What You Can Do
Now more than ever, action is needed to protect SNAP and ensure food security for all. The public can make their voices heard by:
- Calling their Senators and Representatives and urging them to oppose SNAP cuts. Visit our Legislative Action Center to send a message directly to your Massachusetts legislators in Washington D.C.
- Supporting the Food Bank and our food assistance network of pantries, meal programs, and shelters. Click here to learn more.
- Spreading awareness about the impact of potential cuts by sharing these action steps.
About the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts: Since 1982, the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts has been a dedicated partner in the work to end hunger. We deliver nutritious food directly through our Mobile Food Bank and Brown Bag: Food for Elders programs, and we support our region’s food assistance network of food pantries, meal programs, and shelters across Berkshire, Franklin, Hampden, and Hampshire counties. We also engage in public education and advocacy to address the drivers of hunger because we believe everyone deserves access to nutritious food.