More Hopeful Futures or Children as Collateral Damage: SNAP’s Far-Reaching Benefits for Children

What will happen to millions of children and families if historic cuts to SNAP move forward?

We heard from policy experts, state leaders, and advocates who laid bare the consequences of the House-passed bill proposing the largest cuts in SNAP’s history — nearly $300 billion, or about 30% of the program’s budget. As the panelists stressed repeatedly, these aren’t just numbers; they represent real children, families, and communities at risk.

“These are critical years for child development — yet this bill would disproportionately harm our youngest children, children of color, and those from working-class families. The cost isn’t just policy — it’s children’s lives.” 
– Rocio Perez, UnidosUS

Unprecedented Cuts With Immediate Impact and Children and Working Families Bearing the Brunt

• 7 million people would lose SNAP benefits nationwide.
• These reductions threaten to unravel the most basic food security for millions — especially children, seniors, and people with disabilities.
• 34 million children rely on SNAP or Medicaid or both — 1 in 5 children under 5 receive both, facing “double jeopardy” for their health and development.
• 66% of children affected by SNAP cuts are children of color.
• 3 in 4 children who rely on SNAP come from working-class families with parents in the labor force but without four-year degrees.

Ripple Effects Impacting School Meals, Local Economies, and More

• SNAP cuts would eliminate direct certification for free school meals for many children, undermining a key nutritional lifeline.
• The bill shifts SNAP administrative costs heavily onto states, forcing states to face hundreds of millions in new expenses — potentially jeopardizing the entire program.
• Every $1 invested in SNAP generates up to $1.80 in economic activity. This impact is even greater in rural areas, where community ties and local business dependencies are tighter. 
• A 30% cut to SNAP would mean major revenue losses for retailers, possible leading to price hikes, store closures, and a deeper food insecurity crisis, particularly in vulnerable communities.
• Because most SNAP benefits are spent within three weeks, the economic stimulus is immediate and broad-based.

 
New Work Requirements and Burdensome Rules

• The bill redefines “dependent” to children under age 7, meaning many single parents of older children would lose eligibility without meeting work requirements.
• Reporting and administrative hurdles are already causing eligible people to lose access, as seen in Georgia and Hawaii.

Hope and Opportunity

Despite these concerning policy proposals, opportunities and reasons for hope exist:

• Powerful storytelling, combined with local data, is shifting policy conversations.
• Public awareness around SNAP’s value is increasing, creating momentum for protecting and strengthening the program.

Thank you for being part of this urgent conversation and for standing with the families who depend on SNAP, which is a critical, irreplaceable piece of the safety net. The stakes couldn’t be higher. Together, we can amplify the facts about the wide reach and benefits of SNAP across all states — red and blue alike —  so we can protect the vital programs that keep children safe, healthy, and thriving.

If you were able to attend the session, we would love to hear your feedback! We appreciate your help in filling out the following form as we seek to learn and understand the perspectives, ideas, critiques and recommendations that better inform our key audiences.