Immigrant Families Face Deepening Hunger Crisis As SNAP Cuts Meet Deportation Fears

Immigrant families in Illinois are facing escalating food insecurity as SNAP benefit cuts and stricter eligibility requirements loom. Corene Mendoza, who lost her assistance in August, now relies on the Onward Neighborhood House food pantry to provide essential items for her daughter. Community organizations, such as the Greater Chicago Food Depository, report a 38% increase in households seeking food assistance since the recent government shutdown. In response to the crisis, Mayor Brandon Johnson has signed an executive order to allocate more city resources to local food pantries and community organizations. The order mandates city departments to monitor the effects of SNAP changes on independent retailers and restaurants.

As new eligibility requirements take effect on December 1, an estimated 250,000 refugees and humanitarian visa holders are at risk of losing food stamp benefits permanently. Organizations warn that the ongoing hunger crisis will require sustained support from non-profits and government entities. The situation highlights the critical role SNAP plays in combating food insecurity for vulnerable populations.