CHOW prepares for influx of families following federal SNAP changes

SOUTHERN TIER, N.Y. (WBNG) — Updated federal work rules for the SNAP program took effect in New York earlier this year, changing eligibility guidelines for certain adults receiving food benefits.

The modified rules target able-bodied adults without dependents, referred to as ABAWDs.

Under the guidelines that took effect on March 1, 2026, individuals in this group must complete at least 80 hours per month of approved employment or qualifying activities to keep assistance.

“They’re going to be required to have 80 hours per month of either employment or volunteer work, so approximately 20 hours a week. They’re expanding the number of folks who are going to be required to have that; that won’t get exemptions. And so that just means that there’s going to be more people in need of food,” said Les Aylesworth, director of the Community Hunger Outreach Warehouse (CHOW).

Those who do not meet the hourly standard face reduced access and can only receive benefits for a limited timeframe.

Area hunger relief organizations warn that the tighter regulations will likely place added pressure on emergency food networks statewide.

Aylesworth emphasized that community distribution sites are preparing for an influx of residents navigating the policy shifts.

“New York State’s going to have a bigger burden of SNAP benefits, too,” Aylesworth said. “So, there’s a lot happening with the new requirements. But from our perspective at CHOW, serving organizations that give food to the community, those who are food insecure, we just know there’s probably going to be more people in need of food.”

Advocates worry these stricter standards could leave community members, who previously managed living expenses, unable to cover daily nutritional needs.

“Folks who perhaps in the past wouldn’t have needed the extra help because they could fill that gap, now they’re at a point of desperation and in need of food,” Aylesworth added.

For more details about eligibility and the application process can visit the state’s official SNAP guide online.