El Paso Sees Significant Drop in SNAP Enrollment Amid Policy Changes

In May, El Paso County experienced a decline of over 8,700 households enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), marking a 13% drop compared to the previous year. This trend aligns with a statewide decrease in SNAP beneficiaries, largely due to new federal policies that complicate retention for eligible participants. With rising food and living costs, many families, including single mother Ruby Ramirez, are struggling with reduced benefits, receiving significantly less support than before. Additionally, recent changes in work requirements for able-bodied adults and the elimination of exemptions for vulnerable groups are further complicating access to assistance. These developments highlight the growing food insecurity in the region and the challenges many face in navigating the new requirements.

Key Details: • SNAP enrollment in El Paso dropped to nearly 58,800 households in May. • New work requirements mandate able-bodied adults work at least 20 hours weekly to maintain benefits. • Changes affect seniors, veterans, and parents of older children, who now must comply with work mandates. • Many families are unaware of the changes until they seek help from food banks. • SNAP eligibility for most refugees and asylees was terminated in November 2025.