On May 2, 2025, the Trump administration unveiled its fiscal year (FY) 2026 budget proposal, signaling a significant shift in federal priorities. While Congress holds the power to make spending decisions, the administration’s proposal outlines substantial cuts to programs that support Americans with low- and moderate- incomes. If implemented, these reductions threaten to exacerbate poverty, increase food insecurity, and dismantle critical tools that help individuals escape poverty.
This article is part of a series examining the wide-reaching — and often overlooked —consequences of proposed SNAP cuts. Gina Plata-Nino, JD, deputy director of SNAP at FRAC, speaks with John Benedict, CEO, farmer, and co-founder of The Local Co-op in rural Arizona. His story offers a powerful example of how local food systems, entrepreneurship, and SNAP work together to support not only food access — but entire communities.
Remembering an Advocacy Hero and Former FRAC President
March 27, 1942 – April 8, 2025
