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Changes In Federal Regulations May Mean Busier Time For Local Food Banks

Recent changes in federal law regarding food stamps are having an impact on some people in this area and around the country.

The change puts a three month time limit on ‘SNAP’ (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), for unemployed or under-employed adults who are not disabled or raising children.

Various cities have exemptions due to economic and employment conditions, including Rochester. But Terra Keller, chief of staff at Foodlink, says in the 10 counties they serve there are still a number of people who may be losing those food stamp benefits, and she says area food banks have been an uptick in the number of people who need help.

“They have seen participation from clients starting to come in as early as two and a half weeks to three weeks in the month because the limits on their food stamps or no longer receiving those SNAP benefits, so having to rely heavily on the emergency food system to supplement the food that they aren’t receiving.”

Keller says the need increases in the summer when school is out.

“Parents who normally would send their kids to school for breakfast and lunch and if they stay for after school programming might receive a supper through our kids café program at some of the R-centers and other programs in the city, are now responsible for providing those three meals  a day per child,” Keller told WXXI News.

Keller says there are about 500 agencies helping provide food in this area, the issue is making sure people know how to access those resources.

Randy Gorbman is WXXI's director of news and public affairs. Randy manages the day-to-day operations of WXXI News on radio, television, and online.