Changes to SNAP leads to sharp decline in Arizona enrollment

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program has seen a sharp decline in Arizona, losing about a third of its recipients compared with last year, according to the Department of Economic Security.

Children receiving benefits also dramatically dropped. The department said this large decline is likely due to a change in SNAP eligibility requirements that pushed many Arizonans out of the program.

Now, the burden is falling on local nonprofits such as food pantries and meal assistance programs.

Carrie Aranda, Director of Mission Advancement at Tempe Community Action Agency, joined “Arizona Horizon” to further discuss the effects of these SNAP changes.