Advocating for Hunger Relief on Long Island
SNAP ABAWD Changes
Beginning March 2026, the federal government is expanding SNAP work requirements for Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents. As a result, some groups that were previously exempt will now be required to meet federal work rules to maintain eligibility.
Learn more about SNAP Federal work requirements
Need Nutrition Assistance? SNAP Can Help!
- Learn about the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program here: https://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/supplemental-nutrition-assistance-program
- Determine your eligibility and apply here: https://www.ny.gov/services/apply-snap
The Big Beautiful Bill and Tariffs: What’s at Stake
The recently passed Big Beautiful Bill and ongoing tariff increases pose serious challenges to hunger relief efforts across the country. Cuts to SNAP benefits and Medicaid funding, along with rising food prices from new tariffs, mean that millions of families face greater food insecurity.
At Long Island Cares, we are committed to raising awareness, advocating for fair policies, and protecting access to essential nutrition and healthcare programs.
Learn More About the Big Beautiful Bill
Learn More About Tariffs and Food Prices
About the Chapin Center for Public Policy
The Chapin Center for Public Policy is the advocacy arm of Long Island Cares. While food banks play a critical role in meeting immediate needs, ending hunger requires systemic change. Our advocacy focuses on long-term public policy solutions that address the root causes of hunger at the local, state, and federal levels.
Our Advocacy Priorities
Legislative Action
We mobilize our staff, board of directors, partner agencies, and clients to take action on hunger and self-sufficiency. This includes:
- Advocacy campaigns – letters, petitions, and calls to legislators.
- Legislative testimony – sharing real stories and data to influence policy.
- Public policy committees – participating in coalitions and task forces focused on hunger relief.
Education and Awareness
Every day, we see the impact of food insecurity on Long Island families. We use our platform to shine a light on hidden hunger and build public support for sustainable change. Our efforts include:
- Writing op-eds and guest columns in local newspapers.
- Publishing regular updates on social media and our website.
- Hosting advocacy training sessions to empower network partners and clients to speak out.
Long Island Cares 2026 Legislative Priorities
We advocate for policies that:
- Protect and strengthen federal and state nutrition programs.
- Support local food systems and invest in farmers and regional food distribution.
- Advance solutions that promote economic stability and long-term food security.
2026 Long Island Cares Legislative Agenda PDF
Special Events
The Chapin Center hosts and participates in events that bring the community and lawmakers together to discuss hunger relief solutions. Highlights include:
- The Annual Legislative Breakfast at our warehouse.
- Participation in the Feeding America’s Anti-Hunger Policy Conference.
- Hosting roundtables with legislators, community leaders, and advocates.
- Press conferences to generate awareness of urgent legislative issues.
Get Involved
Hunger is a solvable problem—but it requires all of us.
To join us in the fight against hunger on Long Island and make a difference in the lives of your neighbors, contact:
Ciara O’Brien, Director of Public Policy and Government Relations.
Email [email protected]
Take Action
Ready to make an impact?
The Impact of SNAP Cost-Sharing
Federal SNAP cost-shift requirements could leave New York responsible for up to $1.1 billion in new costs, forcing states to make difficult choices that could impact critical food assistance. Long Island Cares urges Congress to support a two-year delay in implementing the SNAP cost shift, giving states time to prepare and helping ensure SNAP remains available for the people who need it most. Read the blog to learn more about the impact of SNAP cost-sharing.
Call your representatives today using the call script below and ask them to support a two-year delay and protect SNAP.