Happy Dog Takes On The SNAP Situation

As the nation readies itself for what could turn into the longest federal government shutdown in history, 42 million people - or about 1 in 8 - are bracing for a pause in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Here in Cuyahoga County, 190,000 residents receive SNAP benefits. Funding for the program will run out starting on November 1st. Regardless of whether the government reopens or Congress passes a SNAP funding bill, changes to SNAP eligibility and work requirements will take effect beginning November 1-impacting immigrants, families with teenage children, and others.\r\n\r\n\r\nFood Banks across the nation are readying to meet increased demand. Yet, SNAP provides about nine times the amount of food aid compared to food banks. Add to this, 1.4 million federal employees are either furloughed or working without pay, stressing household budgets and driving up food insecurity. How are area organizations managing the increased demand? And how can we support the region\'s wrap-around services to become more resilient in the face of external pressures? \r\nSpeakers: Annette Iwamoto\r\nDirector, Cuyahoga Human Services Chamber, Center for Community Solutions\r\nPatrick Kearns\r\nExecutive Director, Re:Source Cleveland\r\nDavid Merriman\r\nDirector, Cuyahoga County Department of Health and Human Services\r\nModerator\r\nGabriel Kramer\r\nReporter/Producer, Ideastream Public Media