CLEVELAND — Local leaders gathered Friday morning at the Greater Cleveland Food Bank to raise awareness of the impact new federal eligibility requirements will have on SNAP recipients.
Cuyahoga County officials warn that more than 1,000 residents are at risk of losing SNAP benefits, and the state has begun notifying those who stand to lose benefits, at least half of whom are 55 or older.
The changes to SNAP benefits stem from House Resolution 1, which was signed in July of last year. The changes include:
- Expanding the work requirement age from 54 to 64, as well as applying it to parents with children older than 14.
Removing exemptions for veterans, homeless individuals, and former foster youth.
“So this is the biggest change that I've seen in the program since I was taking this job. This is bigger than Covid,” said Kevin Gowan, Director of Cuyahoga County Job and Family Services
Gowan says these changes could impact 21,000 recipients in Cuyahoga County, though 75% may still qualify for other exemptions.
“If you have an exemption available. Let's get that on the record so you can reserve your SNAP benefits,” said Gowan.
Job and Family Services has already seen a major drop in enrollment since last year’s government shutdown. In October 2025, nearly 192,000 people were receiving SNAP benefits. That number has now dropped to 181,000, meaning food banks are already feeling the impact.
“It is certainly the case that whenever someone loses access to snap, if it's not because they went on to a great bank job, the chances are very good that they're going to turn to the food bank,” said Kristin Warzocha the President and CEO of the greater Cleveland food bank.
The question remains: why the changes? We spoke with State Representative Jerry Cirino, who says if more people are able to work, even minimally, it could help.
“That takes some of the strain off of the system so that we are sure to always have enough money to take care of the folks who really need the safety net,” said Rep. Cirino.
Konstance Loper is 20 years old and has been in foster care since she was three. She has depended on SNAP benefits for the past four years to help support herself and her son while attending school full time. She tells us the program is already complicated and worries the new rules will prevent people from accessing the food assistance they need.
“Its probably going to kick a lot of people off and make it harder than it already is,” said Loper.
The changes will go into effect as early as May 31.
