Why Are SNAP Rules Changing?

On July 4, 2025, the President signed into law the Budget Reconciliation Bill (H.R. 1 or the “OBBA”), which introduces sweeping changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

These changes include:

• Expanded work requirements for recipients
• Restrictions on immigrant eligibility
• A shift of program costs from the federal government to states

Compounding this, the Trump Administration has declined to release contingency funds to sustain SNAP benefits during the ongoing federal government shutdown.

What This Means for Illinois Families

As a result, beginning at midnight on Saturday, November 1, SNAP benefits for 1.9 million Illinoisans will be suspended. Additionally, with the rule changes, an estimated 360,000 Illinois residents may lose eligibility altogether — including families currently supported by Primo Center.

The Impact on Primo Center Families

To understand the scope of this issue locally, I asked each Program Director to compile information on families’ SNAP benefit levels, family size, and usual benefit receipt dates. The response has been staggering.

As of today, we have data for nearly 150 families, revealing that collectively, families served by Primo Center stand to lose approximately $80,000 per month in direct food assistance. Our 150 families represent 485 people, including 300 children – 300 children in our care. 

Our Response

While we cannot replace these benefits dollar-for-dollar, I’m grateful to share that Primo Center has received an emergency grant of $25,000, from the Carol Oppenheim and Jerome Lamet Charitable Fund which will allow us to provide up to $250 in emergency food assistance per family during the month of November. 

In addition to this immediate relief, we are:

• Connecting families to local food pantries and community food resources. Please see the attached list. 
• Partnering with city and state agencies to stay updated on relief measures.
• Supporting Governor JB Pritzker’s new Executive Order, which allocates $20 million to Illinois food banks to address the crisis.
• Continue reaching out to our philanthropic partners and donors to ask for immediate, emergency support.
• Asking Our Village to donate!

Next Steps

Our team will continue to coordinate emergency food support and share updated information as it becomes available. Staff will also receive a list of recommended talking points for client conversations early next week.

This situation is rapidly evolving, but our commitment remains the same: to ensure that no family at Primo Center goes hungry. 

Thank you for your continued compassion and dedication during this challenging time. 

Felicia