If your grocery budget feels tighter, or you’ve heard news about SNAP and health coverage and aren’t sure what it means for you, you’re not alone. Here is what we know, and what you can do.
What’s happening with SNAP
Due to federal changes impacting SNAP requirements, many individuals and families around the country are losing access to their food benefits. Across Minnesota, about 25,000 fewer people are receiving SNAP than last year, including an 8% drop in Hennepin County (Source: Second Harvest Heartland analysis of Minnesota state SNAP enrollment data, January 2025 – August 2026). If your benefits have been reduced or ended, or you aren’t sure you still qualify, it’s worth taking a second look. VEAP is co-housed with Hennepin County and can help point you in the right direction.
What’s coming with Medicaid
Starting January 1, 2027, new federal rules will change how some adults keep Medicaid (called Medical Assistance in Minnesota). Some adults ages 21–64 will need to show they are working, in school, volunteering, or in job training, and renewals will happen more often. The Minnesota Department of Human Services estimates that as many as 140,000 Minnesotans could lose coverage over time. However, many people are exempt, including people receiving Medicaid because of a disability and parents of dependent children.
What you can do now:
- Keep your address, phone number, and email current with your county.
- Open and respond to any mail about your coverage.
- If you qualify but aren’t enrolled, enroll now. A navigator can help.
- Check the latest details at mn.gov/dhs/federalchanges
How VEAP can help
You don’t have to wait until something goes wrong. VEAP’s Social Services team may be able to help. Our food pantry also offers a variety of options to help stretch your grocery budget, including fresh produce, dairy, proteins, shelf-stable items, and culturally relevant foods. In certain circumstances, we can also help with rental assistance and utility support.
Anyone who needs food is welcome, whether or not you’ve lost benefits. Please call us at 952-888-9616 to get started. For those with an immediate need, please visit us at Door 4 during business hours to pick up an express pack of food including access to fresh produce–no questions asked.