Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program recipients are still welcome to benefits throughout the state and region. But those who are receiving must now contribute to the community through volunteering, working or while learning.

Last week, state Department of Human Services Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh highlighted the federal changes, which took effect this month and how the Department is helping SNAP recipients meet the requirements and maintain their benefits.

“Nearly 2 million Pennsylvanians receive life-sustaining food benefits from SNAP every month. It is this extra bit of help putting food on their tables that enables people to go to school, work, and live healthy lives with the dignity we all deserve,” he said. “Our team at DHS is focused on helping Pennsylvanians navigate these federal changes through new resources like a dedicated website, partnerships with community organizations that will help connect SNAP recipients to work and volunteer opportunities, and simplifying processes to make reporting as easy as possible for those affected by these federal requirements. By working together, we are committed to ensuring that Pennsylvanians who need and qualify for SNAP keep those benefits so that they can feed themselves and their families.”

The federal budget bill passed by Congressional Republicans and signed into law by President Trump on July 4, eliminates flexibilities that previously allowed states to – for some recipients – request waivers for work and reporting requirements based on local unemployment rates or job availability.

While the requirements may seem mean spirited to some, the reality is there is a cost to everything. Having recipients give back — in some way — is an investment and could bring lasting employment.

Last month, the state department announced a new website, dhs.pa.gov/work, detailing the changes to SNAP work and reporting requirements. The website provides details on who is affected, how to meet the work and reporting requirements, and which SNAP recipients may qualify for an exemption and how to obtain one.

Times are tough for many with inflation. No one should lose any benefit they desperately need. But, to keep it now, there is accountability. Understanding the parameters, that can be found in the state website, is an important step.