NEW YORK— New York City Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani said Monday that a citywide effort has helped about 223,000 residents maintain access to food assistance under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) following new federal work requirements.
City officials said the initiative reduced by 65% the number of New Yorkers initially projected to lose benefits, as the administration mobilized multiple agencies to help residents meet eligibility rules or document exemptions.
“Food stamp work requirements don’t create jobs, they create hunger,” Mamdani said in a statement, criticizing the federal policy changes. “We are using every tool available to keep New Yorkers connected to the benefits they deserve.”
The changes stem from federal legislation known as H.R. 1, which expanded work requirements for certain SNAP recipients, including many previously exempt groups such as homeless individuals, veterans and young adults formerly in foster care. Under the rules, able-bodied adults without dependents must work, participate in job training or volunteer at least 20 hours per week to maintain benefits.
City officials warned that without intervention, New Yorkers could have lost an estimated $823 million in food assistance over a year.
The administration launched a “whole-of-government” response ahead of the March 1 implementation of the expanded requirements. Agencies including the Department of Social Services (DSS), NYC Health + Hospitals, the Department of Homeless Services, the City University of New York and the Office of Technology and Innovation coordinated outreach and data-sharing efforts to identify at-risk residents and connect them with services.
Despite the progress, about 40,000 New Yorkers remain at risk of losing benefits this month. The city plans to expand outreach efforts, including phone banking, text messaging and door-to-door canvassing.
Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Dr. Helen Arteaga said the administration is working to ensure eligible residents do not lose access to food assistance.
“Our ultimate goal is to make sure that no one who relies on SNAP goes without it,” Arteaga said.
According to city data, most SNAP recipients already work, including 82% of single adult recipients and 91% of households with children. Officials said young, single men are among those most at risk of failing to meet the new requirements.
The Department of Social Services has partnered with more than 100 community-based organizations to create qualifying work, training and volunteer opportunities. The agency has also conducted outreach campaigns through phone calls, texts, public service announcements and community events, and trained thousands of community partners to assist residents.
Officials said residents who receive notices about SNAP eligibility or experience disruptions in benefits can call the city’s hotline at 718-SNAP-NOW or seek assistance through the ACCESS HRA app and website.
Kishor Panthi
View More PostsKishor Panthi is the founder and editor-in-chief of Khasokhas and NepYork. He is the author of three books, “Kampan,” "UNTRANSLATABLE" and “Zero Mile.” He writes about social issues, immigration, and politics.
