Illinois Extension’s SNAP Education Program Concludes: What This Means for Food Security for 1 Million Residents

In late July, the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign announced it will end a vital program called Illinois SNAP-Ed, impacting food security for a million residents. This change will affect nearly 2,000 partnerships and lead to the loss of over 200 jobs within the Illinois Extension.

The cut comes after federal funding for SNAP-Education was eliminated. This program provided essential nutrition education for those eligible for SNAP benefits, previously known as food stamps or Link in Illinois.

For more than 30 years, Illinois SNAP-Ed, operating under the name Eat. Move. Save., has been a major player in improving food access and nutrition. The program mapped local food systems, spotted gaps, and offered targeted interventions based on community needs.

Illinois SNAP-Ed collaborated with schools, food pantries, farmers, and health departments to help people access healthy food and make the most of their resources. Annually, Eat. Move. Save. prevents over 5,000 cases of obesity and nearly 600 cases of food insecurity. More than half of participants report making healthier choices after the program.

“With 360,000 residents at risk of losing SNAP benefits, they’re not just losing food support; they’re losing valuable resources to make their food go further,” said Dean Germán Bollero. He highlighted the proven success of SNAP-Ed in improving health and economic outcomes, urging that such programs should be expanded, not cut.

Among its initiatives, Eat. Move. Save. launched Find Food IL, a useful tool for locating grocery stores and food pantries. It also coordinates Hunters Feeding Illinois, allowing hunters to donate venison to families in need.

Moreover, SNAP-Ed helped initiate IL-EATS, connecting local producers with hunger relief organizations. However, IL-EATS is also expected to end soon, disrupting innovative efforts that supported both growers and families.

The loss of SNAP-Ed funding means the removal of 217 trained professionals dedicated to community education and support. “These staff members earn trust in their communities and create real change,” said Jennifer McCaffrey, an assistant dean at Illinois Extension.

Research from Altarum shows that every dollar spent on Illinois SNAP-Ed returns between $5.36 and $9.54 in health care savings. This translates to $135 million in benefits from an annual investment of $18 million.

“Eat. Move. Save. is unique in its ability to improve health while also reducing healthcare costs and empowering communities,” remarked Dr. Amy Christison from the University of Illinois College of Medicine. She emphasized the program’s locally focused approach and its significant statewide impact.

As the Illinois Extension leadership plans the program’s end, this decision raises critical questions about food security and public health in the state. The community will feel the effects, especially in areas already facing food access challenges.

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