A Note From Jennie: Policy Changes, Real Impact
What We're Watching—And Why it Matters
We know that when policy changes, so does the daily reality for many of our neighbors. With the new federal budget reconciliation bill now signed into law, and new rules surrounding the USDA and farm-to-foodbank programs, we are facing a sense of heightened uncertainty alongside our communities. While the full impact is still unfolding, one thing is clear: these changes will make it even harder for many to access the food and care they need.
What's Changing?
The Big, "Brutal" Bill
The new federal budget includes historic cuts to SNAP and Medicaid—two of the most critical programs for fighting poverty and hunger in the U.S.
This puts an estimated 360,000 Illinois residents at risk of losing SNAP benefits. Additionally, the state will now be required to contribute up to $705 million annually toward SNAP benefits and cover 75% of administrative costs—pressures no state budget can easily absorb.
USDA Changes
Cuts and changes to USDA programs tied to the Farm Bill mean that food pantries like Beyond Hunger will likely receive less federally-sourced food just as more people need it.
In 2025, the USDA paused $500 million in funding to The Emergency Food Assistance Program, one of the core nutrition programs that buys food from farmers and sends it to food pantries. While the USDA replenished funding through separate allocations, it is not enough to offset this earlier loss.
We've seen this pattern before: When federal support shrinks, need rises—swiftly and sharply. We will continue to provide resources for anyone seeking assistance.
How It Impacts Us
We're preparing for a sharp increase in demand at a time when the safety net beneath our community is wearing thin, and our federally-sourced food donations are shrinking.
For example, in Austin—one of the primary communities we serve—39% of residents rely on SNAP benefits, a rate that's 109% higher than the citywide average. With stricter eligibility rules and reduced benefits, many face the risk of losing support that not only helps feed families, but supports local growers, grocery stores, and more.
We are bracing for:
- More families turning to us for the first time.
- Longer pantry lines and increased pressure on our Home Delivery and Benefits Services programs.
- Fewer USDA staples and greater reliance on community-based food sourcing: partnerships with local grocery stores, food drives, and more.
- Increased work for our staff and volunteers, and more strain on resources as we adapt to meet growing and sustained community needs.
What's Next?
While we can't predict every outcome, we do know this: staying informed and staying connected matters. You can:
- Share this message with your networks.
- Volunteer with us as we prepare to serve more families.
- Advocate for strong, equitable food policy at the state and federal level.
We'll continue to update you as we learn more about what these changes mean for our community—and howe we can respond, together.
Get Involved