In Delbarton, West Virginia, the House of Hope mobile food pantry helps families in need. Recently, a truck delivering groceries faced a delay due to a blown tire. Despite the wait, nobody complained.
Perry Hall was one of the people in line. He lives on about $1,500 a month from Social Security and receives Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. His wife, Lilly, volunteers with the distribution team. However, new SNAP work requirements put Lilly’s benefits at risk. Starting last November, “able-bodied adults” under 65 must either work, volunteer, or enroll in job training for at least 80 hours a month to keep receiving benefits. This change affects many, including parents of teenagers.
Supporters argue that work requirements help people find jobs and reduce reliance on government aid. However, Rhonda Rogombé, a health policy analyst, points out that these rules do not lower unemployment rates. A study from 2018 showed that such requirements had no effect on labor force participation.
The pandemic temporarily lifted these work requirements, but they returned in fall 2023. Post-reinstatement, job numbers in Mingo County actually declined. Rogombé suggests that hunger hampers people’s ability to work effectively.
In this economically distressed region where jobs are hard to come by, Lilly found a position at a local restaurant that will keep her benefits intact for now. On a recent Saturday, House of Hope distributed essential goods like eggs, bread, and fresh produce to hundreds of families. Among those waiting were older residents and some young adults struggling to find jobs.
Mingo County’s population has dropped significantly from 27,000 in 2010, partly due to the decline of the coal industry. A quarter of its residents live in poverty, with many facing barriers such as health issues and lack of education.
Research indicates that filing for SNAP benefits can be complicated, and many residents lack reliable internet access. In fact, about 25% struggle to connect online. In addition, states will shoulder more costs for SNAP administration starting in 2024, which could lead some to limit program participation.
Jessica Klein from the Kentucky Center for Economic Policy expresses concern for those affected by these changes, as SNAP is crucial for many families. Cuts to this program could increase health risks and threaten food security.
In Mingo County, community efforts continue. Several food pantries provide groceries, with volunteers like Janet Gibson at the Blessing Barn working tirelessly to feed their neighbors. She vividly knows her community members, indicating the strong ties that exist here.
Transportation is a significant hurdle for many. Travel across the hilly landscape can be time-consuming and costly, adding to the struggles of finding stable work.
Meanwhile, Trista Shankle, a single mother from Kentucky, shares her anxiety about potential cuts to social support. She depends on SNAP, Medicaid, and other assistance as she pursues her education. She believes that these benefits have been vital for her family’s stability.
Throughout this struggle, families remain hopeful. Lilly Hall dreams of securing a full-time waitress position soon.
This ongoing story highlights the challenges many face, the complexity of government assistance, and the resilience of communities in difficult times.
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