The Shifting Tides of Support: Why Belknap and Sullivan Are Seeing SNAP Benefits Change

Alright, so there's some pretty significant news brewing for folks in Belknap and Sullivan counties here in New Hampshire. You see, a program that's been a genuine lifeline for many during some truly tough times—the emergency allotments for SNAP benefits—is winding down for these specific areas, come August 1st.

It’s a big deal, honestly, because for quite a while now, these emergency allotments meant extra help with the grocery bill each month. And who couldn't use that, right? Especially when you think about everything we've all been through. While most other counties across the Granite State saw their additional SNAP support end back in March of last year, Belknap and Sullivan got a bit of an extension. Why, you ask? Well, it all came down to unemployment figures.

Back in February of 2022, both Belknap and Sullivan counties were facing unemployment rates north of 10%. That qualified them for continued emergency aid, offering a crucial buffer against economic hardship. But, as things tend to do, circumstances have shifted. The unemployment numbers have, thankfully, dropped below that 10% threshold in both counties, which, while good news on one hand, means the federal criteria for those extra SNAP dollars are no longer met.

What does this all really mean for households that have been relying on that added support? Simply put, their monthly food assistance is going to decrease. It's a tough pill to swallow for many, undoubtedly. The New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is certainly aware of the impact this will have, and they’re making efforts to help people navigate this transition.

If you're in Belknap or Sullivan and you're one of the households affected, know this: you're not entirely on your own. DHHS is pointing people toward local community action agencies, for example, which can offer guidance and perhaps connect you with other resources. There’s also 211, a fantastic service that can direct you to all sorts of assistance. And, of course, your local DHHS District Office is there to provide specific information about your benefits. You can also hop online to NHeasy.nh.gov for more details about your case. It’s a change, yes, but hopefully, with a bit of planning and knowing where to turn, the impact can be managed.