SNAP Delays and New Federal Rules to Affect Over 100,000 Monroe County Residents

Monroe County Executive Adam Bello joined local leaders this week to warn residents about delays and upcoming changes to the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) as the federal government shutdown continues.

Monroe County Executive, Adam Bello

County officials said SNAP benefits scheduled for release on Nov. 1 will be delayed, impacting more than 104,000 Monroe County residents — including over 37,000 children and 22,000 seniors. The county’s SNAP program distributes about $20 million in benefits each month.

Bello criticized the shutdown’s effect on food security, saying it jeopardizes basic needs for thousands of vulnerable families. “This disruption threatens to take food off the tables of those who need it most,” Bello said.

U.S. Rep. Joe Morelle echoed the concern, calling on federal lawmakers to act quickly. “We must prioritize working families and prevent further hardship for those who depend on this critical lifeline,” he said.

Local food organizations are bracing for an increase in demand. Julia Tedesco, president and CEO of Foodlink, said the nonprofit is purchasing additional food but cannot meet the surge in need alone. “We’re asking the public to donate and support food pantries and meal programs during this time,” she said.

County officials are urging SNAP recipients to continue submitting required documents to the Department of Human Services. Residents in immediate need of food can contact 211, visit MyWayfinder.org, or use Foodlink’s “Find Food” tool at foodlinkny.org/find-food.

In addition to the funding delay, new federal work and reporting requirements will take effect Dec. 1 under legislation passed earlier this year. The law, part of H.R. 1 — known as the “One Big Beautiful Bill” — introduces stricter rules for certain recipients.

Under the new policy, Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs) — individuals aged 18 to 64 without children under 14 — must complete at least 20 hours per week of work, training, or volunteer service to remain eligible for benefits.

The Monroe County Department of Human Services will notify affected recipients by mail beginning Nov. 1, outlining steps needed to comply. Bello urged residents to read the information carefully and act promptly to avoid losing benefits.

Rochester Mayor Malik Evans denounced the federal changes as “a thinly veiled attempt to reduce funding for a proven anti-hunger program.” He thanked Bello, Morelle, and local organizations for working to limit the harm to residents.

“As this shutdown drags on, our community is once again left to pick up the pieces,” Evans said. “We must ensure no one in Rochester goes hungry.”

County officials and community partners said they will continue coordinating to help families access food resources while preparing for the stricter SNAP rules taking effect in December.