Proposed changes to food stamps will leave more Pennsylvanians hungry

In July, the USDA announced proposed changes to the SNAP (food stamp) program that would cut food assistance from 3 million people nationally, including 200,000 people in PA.  These changes would restrict families with incomes above 130% of the federal poverty level from accessing food stamps and free school meals.

Currently 40 states, including Pennsylvania, use categorical eligibility to determine if a family qualifies for SNAP. In PA, families with incomes up to 160% of the federal poverty level remain eligible for some amount of benefits if their child care, housing, or other expenses bring their income below 130% of the federal poverty level.

Categorical eligibility allows families to phase out their SNAP benefits slowly as their income rises. It also allows low-income families to put money into savings, and it saves money by simplifying administration of the program. 

Take Action - your voice can make a difference:

• Register for a webinar to learn how to write and submit a public comment on the SNAP changes. Public comments must be taken into account on changes like the ones proposed, and could amend or end the proposal. 
• The Food Research and Action Center (FRAC) has a list of resources to use in public comment and a link to the comment page.
• Do you need food assistance? Call PathWays PA at 610-543-5022 to get help applying for benefits.