What Does the “Big Beautiful Bill” Mean for Our Community?
You’re likely aware that the Senate passed a long-contested bill this week. For you, this bill might be a lot of political noise, a jumble of numbers, and inconsequential policy shifts.
But for millions of Americans, this bill has very real ramifications. It means skipped dinners, missed housing payments, and no more healthcare.
Here’s what the bill means in very real terms:
Nearly 1 in 5 people currently on Medicaid will lose their coverage
A $35 co-payment will be added for those who remain
Almost 10% of SNAP (food stamp) recipients will lose benefits
This bill slashes desperately needed lifelines to millions of Americans, including thousands of guests we already serve at our pantry.
So, what now?
When SNAP was cut in the past, visits to Food for Greater Elgin surged 150%. Now, with both SNAP and Medicaid decimated, we are bracing for an unknown impact–we’ve never before faced cuts to both of these crucial programs.
Seniors, for example, make up a growing number of our guests. 40% rely on both SNAP and Medicaid to meet basic needs. How will they cope now?
With our help–and yours.
To keep up with demand, we estimate needing to purchase at least $90,000—and potentially closer to $150,000—more food over the coming months. That’s on top of what we already provide each week to hundreds of guests, 30% of whom are children.
Will you help us prepare to meet this increase in need?
As we–and our guests–prepare to stretch every dollar, we ask you to help us bridge this chasm of need that’s opened up in our nation.
