SNAP Benefits 2023 Recipients Struggle Twice With Reduced Amount, Increasing Inflation

The SNAP Benefits 2023 recipients struggle twice with the decrease in amount despite the rising inflation. Reports say in March, the program was brought back to the levels it had before the COVID-19 pandemic occurred.

Food pantries in Chicago have experienced an increase in demand ever since the SNAP Benefits 2023, which were established during the COVID-19 pandemic, were discontinued as soon as the month of March started.

According to Kim, spokeswoman for the Greater Chicago Food Depository, Lee Man-Yee, stated that the rolling back of the SNAP Benefits 2023 to their levels before the COVID-19 pandemic is a “double blow”. This is because along with the rollback, the inflation rates are also worsening.

READ ALSO: 2023 SNAP Schedule: Check Your State Here For May Payments!

SNAP Benefits 2023 Crisis

According to Tofoya, Lee provided an example of the SNAP Benefits 2023 crisis from one pantry in the West Side of Chicago. Lee stated that in March 2022, the pantry served only 935 recipients. On the contrary, in March 2023, the number tripled to more than 2,700 recipients.

The Greater Chicago Food Depository, a non-profit organization, collaborates with more than 800 food pantries in the city of Chicago and in Cook County. Lee added that in March, the organization served over 175,000 households. Reportedly, the number is 17% more than how much was served in February.

Beyond Hunger, another non-profit organization, also manages a food pantry and delivery program for individuals who live in the West Side. CEO Michele Zurakowski states that 300 more residents showed up to the pantry in March in comparison to February. Zurakowski reiterated Lee’s opinion, stating that the SNAP Benefits 2023 recipients are struggling twice due to the cutbacks and inflation.

READ ALSO: Up To $939 In SNAP Benefits 2023 Being Distributed In Texas— See Who Qualifies!