Support Roadrunner Food Bank: Addressing Upcoming SNAP Cuts and Changes Together

Keeping fresh food on the table while sticking to a budget can be tough, especially with federal cuts to the SNAP program on the horizon. In New Mexico, about 24% of residents—around 500,000 people—depend on SNAP benefits to put food on the table. With proposed cuts, up to 58,000 of these families could lose their benefits entirely, and many might receive less money each month. For instance, a family currently getting $292 a month could see that drop to $231.

Dana Yost, president and CEO of Roadrunner Food Bank, has worked in food banking for 15 years. He stated he’s never seen anything like the impending federal cuts, even during past economic downturns or the pandemic. Rising food prices and a growing client base are adding to the challenges. Roadrunner lost 25 truckloads of food between April and June and anticipates losing another 65 truckloads in the coming year. This translates to millions of pounds of high-quality food, particularly protein and dairy items, that cannot easily be replaced.

The government is also tightening work requirements for able-bodied adults between 16 and 64 years old. This change marks the first increase in work requirements for SNAP in years. Jason Riggs, director of advocacy at Roadrunner, is looking for alternative funding solutions to help those affected by these cuts. He emphasizes the urgency of the situation, noting how quickly changes are unfolding.

According to a recent USDA report, food insecurity affects up to 10.5% of households in the U.S. This statistic highlights the growing need for community support, as food costs continue to rise. Social media trends reveal a surge in grassroots efforts aimed at combating hunger, from food drives to grassroots advocacy campaigns.

In this context, public involvement becomes crucial. Businesses, government agencies, and individuals are all called upon to lend a helping hand. The future of food security in our communities depends on collective action and innovative solutions.



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Giuli Frendak