As the Massachusetts primaries and November’s midterms approach, food access leaders are watching these races closely, bracing for results that will shape whether families have enough to eat.
Massachusetts has long led on protecting residents’ access to food, healthcare, and housing. That standard should not slip. Federal cuts to Medicaid and SNAP have put food access at serious risk: according to the DTA, more than 4,000 families in Salem and Lynn have lost SNAP benefits since August 2024. With SNAP costs shifting to states in October, officials must act.
Last fall’s shutdown, the longest in our nation’s history, briefly cut off SNAP benefits for thousands of families. Neighbors stepped up immediately, supporting The Salem Pantry and other pantries because they believe food is a basic right and could not stand by while others went without. Our leaders should be held to that belief.
A Farm Bill still awaits passage in Congress, one of the most consequential votes this term, and one of our clearest chances to protect SNAP.
We have brought these concerns directly to MA-06 candidates, state officials, and Make Hunger History’s Senate Candidate Forum. The message is the same: Emergency food organizations cannot absorb thousands more neighbors losing SNAP benefits, and we will hold whoever wins accountable.
If you believe your neighbors deserve enough to eat, make your voice heard, and keep it heard after votes are cast.
Robyn Burns
Executive Director
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