In Virginia, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients report “significant” decreases in their monthly allowances. Tamika Spears, a Richmond resident interviewed by a local television station, stated that her benefits had decreased from $518 to $262.
“It’s the difference between skipping meals or not,” he told me. The situation coincides with the USDA’s announcement of a federal cut of more than $1 billion, which will also impact school programs and food banks.
State Senator Maime Locke tied the cuts to tax breaks for millionaires. “They are taking money away from programs that keep the most vulnerable fed to enrich the rich,” according to him.
Locke stated that the cuts would strain the state budget, despite a recent legislative agreement that prioritises tax equity, affordable housing, and public education.
Is Trump’s DOGE cutting SNAP benefits?
According to national media, Republicans justify the changes by supporting Donald Trump’s federal government reduction agenda. In February 2025, lawmakers approved a resolution to cut $2 trillion in mandatory spending over a decade, including SNAP and Medicaid.
Experts such as Bobby Kogan estimate that at least 20% of the Agriculture Committee’s savings will go directly to the food program.
Although G.T. Thompson, chairman of the Agriculture Committee, denied direct cuts to SNAP, other Republican congressmen expressed concern about potential limits on income thresholds or monthly payments.
At the same time, the Trump administration proposes converting the program to block allocations, which would shift some of the costs to the states. Similar measures enacted during his first term faced legal challenges because they affected 43 million people, including 9 million children.
Trump and Musk push reforms that could reduce federal nutrition assistance
The Department of Government Efficiency, led by Elon Musk, emerges as a key player in the reform efforts. The organisation has advocated for the cancellation of USDA contracts and opposes refunds for stolen SNAP benefits.
Critics argue that its emphasis on cost reduction prioritises corporate food security agendas. Musk, who has been linked to $9 million in USDA cuts, has declined to comment on the criticism.
While Congress debates the reauthorization of the Agricultural Bill for 2025, civil society organizations warn of famine. Spears emphasized, “In the richest country, no one should go hungry.” With a divided political landscape, analysts predict conflicts between fiscal priorities and social rights, signalling a watershed moment for the future of food assistance in the United States.
What to do if SNAP benefits are cut
If you are affected by cuts to your SNAP benefits, there are some resources you can turn to if the situation is urgent:
- Food banks and pantries: Organizations like Feeding America (1-800-771-2303) connect people with local banks. Search www.feedingamerica.org for your nearest center.
- Free school meals: If you have children, schools often offer free or low-cost breakfast/lunch, even on holidays. Ask at your school.
- Community programs: Churches, community centers, or farmers markets sometimes offer free or reduced-price food.
- WIC (Women and Children): If you are pregnant, postpartum, or have children under 5 years old, WIC offers nutritious foods. Visit www.fns.usda.gov/wic.
- Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP): For adults over 60 years of age. Check with your local health department.
- Meal delivery programs: Some cities offer home delivery for seniors or people with disabilities.
- LIHEAP: Assistance to pay for electricity, gas or heat. Search www.acf.hhs.gov/ocs/liheap.
- Rental assistance: Organizations like the Salvation Army or federal programs like Section 8 can help. Call 2-1-1 for local options.
- Free or low-cost health clinics: If you need medical help, search www.freeclinics.com.
Asking for help is not shameful. Communities, neighbors and even strangers are willing to support you. If you feel overwhelmed, take a deep breath and take one step at a time.