SNAP: Feeding families, fueling Minnesota’s economy

Steve Barthel, Minnesota Grocers Association

SNAP is more than a hunger safety net. It is also an economic engine for Minnesota.

Steve Barthel, Director of Government Relations at the Minnesota Grocers Association, sees the impact daily. Representing over 300 food industry members across 1,300 locations, MGA knows SNAP dollars ripple through every part of the food system. 

“SNAP is not just a hunger program; it's a jobs program as well,” Barthel said. “It supports almost 400,000 jobs nationally in retail, food production, and transportation, and brings in $20 billion in direct wages.”

Proposed cuts of up to 25 percent to SNAP in Minnesota could be devastating.

“That could mean 1,500 lost jobs throughout our food supply chain,” Barthel said. “I’ve talked to store owners who say that on some days, half of their sales come from SNAP. If that revenue disappears, we’ll see the closure of stores.”

“In 2023, the profit margin for independent retailers was 1.6%. So, if you're a retailer, particularly in an area with a lot of SNAP recipients, you are looking at up to a 25% cut in that spending in your store. And in some places where stores are already holding on by just a thread, that can be the difference between staying open and being closed.”

When a local grocery store shuts down, the entire community feels the impact. And it’s an issue for rural and urban areas.

“It affects every community. Once a grocery store closes, it can be nearly impossible to bring it back. In rural areas, families without transportation can’t easily travel to the next town over to shop.”

Along with supporting nutrition, SNAP strengthens local businesses, supports jobs and helps keep communities stable.

“It helps families, supports the economy and prevents higher long-term costs. SNAP truly benefits everyone.”