Experts Warn About the Impact on Vulnerable Communities, Supermarkets, and Farmers
The proposed cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) have generated concern among experts and food assistance organizations, who warn that the reduction in funds could affect millions of people in the United States.
Currently, one in eight people in the country depends on SNAP benefits for their food. In Ohio, approximately 1.5 million people qualify for this program, according to Joree Novotny, executive director of the Ohio Association of Food Banks.
«There are already almost one and a half million people whose incomes are low enough to face a situation of living paycheck to paycheck and needing to rely on food banks for assistance,» Novotny explained.
The possible cuts are part of an effort by the Trump administration to reduce government spending, which includes adjustments to programs within the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Novotny warned about the impact this would have on low-income families and the local economy.
«Every dollar cut from the pockets of low-income Ohio residents for food means they are more likely to turn to us for help,» she added.
The director also emphasized the difficulty food banks would face in meeting demand if SNAP is reduced. While this program can provide nine meals for every one offered by food banks, its elimination or reduction could overwhelm the assistance capacity of these organizations.
Economic and Agricultural Industry Consequences
The impact would not only affect direct beneficiaries of the program but also supermarkets, retailers, and farmers. In Ohio, nearly 10,000 establishments accept SNAP, and its reduction could lead some to close, affecting local producers.
A USDA study indicates that SNAP benefit spending strengthens the agricultural industry and generates jobs in the sector. Tevis Foreman, executive director of Produce Perks, highlighted the program’s role in boosting farmers’ markets and local businesses.
«We encourage consumers to shop at farmers’ markets and other direct-to-consumer sales locations», Foreman explained, noting that many small producers rely on these customers.
If the cuts are implemented, the domino effect could impact both consumers and farmers, increasing food insecurity and weakening local economies.