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El Paso Faces Increased Hunger as SNAP Cuts Hit Vulnerable Families

KVIA••Carpio Griego
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Recent cuts to the SNAP program, resulting from House Resolution 1, are expected to severely affect El Paso, which has a high poverty rate. The bill, enacted in July 2025, will reduce SNAP funding by $187 billion over the next decade and impose stricter work requirements, impacting thousands of families. Chris Yagel, Interim President of El Pasoans Fighting Hunger, highlighted that the local poverty rate stands at 40%, double the national average, which exacerbates the situation. With summer approaching, children who rely on school meal programs face uncertainty about their food security, raising concerns about mental health and anxiety. Yagel is preparing for increased demand at food banks as the full impact of the cuts remains uncertain.

Key Details: • SNAP funding will be reduced by $187 billion over the next decade. • Work requirements will increase to 80 hours per month for able-bodied individuals. • The age limit for SNAP eligibility will rise from 54 to 64 years old. • El Paso's poverty rate is 40%, significantly higher than national and state averages. • Local food banks are preparing for increased demand due to these cuts.

children hunger snap poverty food-banks

People & Organizations

El PasoUTEPEl Pasoans Fighting HungerChris Yagel

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