New SNAP Work Rules Threaten Benefits for Chicago Seniors, Caregivers

Federal changes require 80 hours of work or volunteering per month, posing challenges for vulnerable populations

Mar. 17, 2026 at 1:09am

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New federal rules requiring able-bodied adults to work or volunteer to receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits are creating significant challenges, particularly for older Americans and those with caregiving responsibilities in Chicago. The updated SNAP rules now include individuals aged 55 to 64, as well as veterans and parents with older children, but data shows many in this demographic struggle to meet the 80-hour monthly requirement.

Why it matters

The potential loss of SNAP benefits comes at a time when poverty among Illinois residents aged 60 and older is increasing. Advocates argue the new rules disproportionately harm vulnerable populations and fail to recognize the realities of aging and caregiving.

The details

Under the new rules, SNAP beneficiaries must log 80 hours of work or volunteer activity each month to maintain eligibility. However, a Chicago Sun-Times and WBEZ analysis found that only about 35% of Chicago households with adults in the 55-64 age bracket had someone working at least 20 hours a week. This disparity highlights the potential for widespread benefit loss. Community organizations are expanding volunteer opportunities, but report lower-than-expected demand, raising concerns that many eligible individuals will be unable to meet the requirements.

  • The new SNAP work rules went into effect in January 2026.
  • Individuals who do not meet the requirements may lose their benefits starting in May 2026.

The players

Ernie Uribe

A 60-year-old Chicago resident who is volunteering at a local food pantry while also providing 24-hour care for his 91-year-old mother, struggling to meet the 80-hour monthly requirement.

Care For Friends

A community organization in Chicago that is creating a list of local volunteer options and brainstorming creative ways to count activities to help SNAP recipients meet the new requirements.

Meals on Wheels Chicago

A community organization that has launched a 'Snap Together Volunteers' program, allowing seniors to volunteer at their food pantry and receive a food box in return.

Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS)

The state agency that initially estimated up to 400,000 residents could lose SNAP benefits, but later revised the estimate to less than 200,000 after determining that roughly half of those individuals were eligible for exemptions.

Chris Smith

The operator of a food pantry who emphasizes that the seniors he serves are often in need and contribute significantly to their communities.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.