Many low-income older adults are facing food insecurity and poor nutrition, leading to worsening health and increased health care use. Currently, New Hampshire has low participation for older adults in SNAP, a state program that provides grocery dollars to low-income individuals. This means that many low-income older adults who are eligible to receive SNAP benefits are not getting them.
SB 499, the Hunger Free NH Act, aims to reduce hunger for NH children, older adults, and people with disabilities.
About the Bill
SB 499 would help older adults and people with disabilities in New Hampshire access SNAP benefits. SB 499 includes the federal Elderly Simplified Application Project (ESAP), which makes it easier for older adults and people with disabilities, who are often on fixed incomes, to enroll and stay enrolled in SNAP. This would help low-income, older Granite Staters get the food and nutrition they need.
Take Action
Email the Committee
Contact the House Finance Committee to urge them to reject the proposed amendment and support the Hunger Free NH Act as unanimously passed by the NH Senate using NH Hunger Solutions' easy action form. Tell the committee that Granite State children are worth the investment and deserve the nutrition they need to survive and thrive.
Spread the Word
Download and share our one-pager about What the End Hunger in NH Act Means for Older Adults
Bill Status
The Senate passed SB 499 with an amendment that makes targeted investments and establishes necessary programs and policies to help feed NH’s older adults, people living with disabilities, and children. The amendment still includes the Elderly Simplified Application Project for SNAP.
However, the bill crossed over to the House Finance Committee, which introduced an amendment that threatens to dismantle the entire bill, removing every provision that aids in feeding NH children. Learn more from NH Hunger Solutions and contact the House Finance Committee to urge them to reject the proposed amendment and support the Hunger Free NH Act as unanimously passed by the NH Senate.
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