Over 22,000 New Yorkers Lose Food Assistance Following Federal Policy Shift

In June, more than 22,000 New Yorkers were removed from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) as a direct result of new federal work requirements. The policy, which took effect in March, mandates that recipients between the ages of 18 and 64 must maintain employment, participate in volunteer work, or be enrolled in school to remain eligible for benefits beyond a three-month period, unless they qualify for a medical or disability exemption.

City officials noted that the closures represent roughly 1.3% of the city’s total SNAP caseload. However, the Department of Social Services (DSS) estimates that the loss of these benefits equates to a reduction of over $5 million in monthly food assistance across the five boroughs. Commissioner Erin Dalton characterized the administrative hurdles as unnecessary barriers to essential food aid, noting that the impact is particularly severe for young adults aged 18 to 35.

Geographically, the closures were concentrated in Brooklyn, which accounted for 42% of the affected cases, followed by the Bronx at 26%. In approximately one-third of these instances, only the individual subject to the work rules lost their benefits, resulting in a partial reduction of household aid rather than a total termination of services.

In an effort to mitigate the impact of the federal overhaul, the city utilized data from local universities and hospitals to proactively identify and exempt residents with medical conditions or those currently pursuing education. Additionally, the Mayor’s Public Engagement Unit conducted outreach to over 6,000 households deemed at risk of losing coverage. Despite these efforts, some recipients reported a lack of awareness regarding the new compliance standards.

While the city has partnered with over 100 nonprofit organizations to facilitate volunteer opportunities that satisfy the new federal criteria, local food pantries have already begun to report an increase in demand. Officials anticipate this trend may intensify as the year progresses. The city continues to offer assistance to those affected by the policy changes, directing residents to call 718-SNAP-NOW for support.