County leader warns SNAP cuts would strain families and systems

Jamie Hayes, Director of Human Services, Le Sueur County 

In Le Sueur County, where nearly half the population relies on SNAP benefits, any reduction in support would have immediate and far-reaching consequences. Jamie Hayes, Director of Human Services, sees the impact daily. 

“These benefits don’t just help put food on the table; they make the rest of life manageable.” 

In 2024, Le Sueur County administered more than $1.9 million in SNAP, while neighboring Nicollet County distributed over $3 million. These dollars help families navigate everyday pressures, covering groceries while still affording housing, child care and emergency expenses. 

“At a time of rising grocery costs, SNAP is what allows families to keep up.” 

Hayes emphasized that SNAP also makes a meaningful difference for people with specific nutritional or medical needs and those working in low-wage jobs trying to stay afloat. 

But looming federal proposals threaten to scale back this vital assistance, proposing to shift as much as 25% of program costs to states, which would overwhelm local systems. 

“As county officials, we do our part, but we cannot absorb federal shortfalls. That would force impossible choices and reduce services for families who depend on them.” 

The ripple effects could be severe. Already strained food shelves would see greater demand. For families unable to meet their basic needs, the stakes are higher than just hunger. 

“We could see more families in crisis. More reports to child protection, more mental health emergencies,” Hayes said. All of it tied to the stress of not having enough food. 

SNAP keeps households steady. Pulling back now, Hayes warns, risks tipping thousands into instability.