SNAP cuts would deepen Minnesota’s hunger crisis

Sophia Lenarz-Coy, Executive Director, The Food Group 

Across Minnesota, food shelves are experiencing record-breaking demand — a clear sign that families face more pressure than ever. Sophia Lenarz-Coy, Executive Director of The Food Group, a nonprofit serving 30 counties, describes a hunger relief system pushed to its limits. 

“What we're seeing in the 487 locations statewide is record numbers of food shelf visits.” 

The numbers are staggering: nearly 9 million visits to food shelves are expected statewide in 2024, three times the number recorded in 2019. 

“Clearly, the hunger relief system has really stretched its capacity,” Lenarz-Coy said. “And what is interesting about the increases we've seen is that it's not a regional issue. It is true in urban areas. It's true in rural areas, and it's true across the board.” 

Despite this growth, nonprofit food providers can’t replace what SNAP offers. 

“For every meal provided through food shelves or food banks, SNAP provides nine,” she explained. “Even a 10% cut to SNAP would require the hunger relief system to double, and looking at the fact that it has already tripled over the last five years is simply not sustainable.” 

Rising grocery costs, stagnant incomes, and increased housing, medical, and childcare expenses compound the pressure. SNAP allows families to shop with dignity and meet specific needs, especially vital for those with dietary restrictions. 

“Everyone’s ideal option is to go to a grocery store,” she said. “This is what we all want to be able to do. We want to pick out the food that our family needs.” 

Lenarz-Coy’s message is clear: 

“There’s just no way these proposed SNAP cuts won’t have detrimental impacts on the health of Minnesotans. This is the time to invest in families getting the food security they need.”