Lost SNAP Benefits? Learn About the FRESH Program for Families in Need

Illinois Proposes One-Time Payments for Families Who Lose SNAP Benefits

Benefit Would Be Issued Through a State EBT Card

Criticism Emerges Over Fraud and Long-Term Dependency

The state could create a new financial safety net for families who lose food assistance benefits. The proposal comes just as new federal work requirements for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) take effect.

House Bill 4730, known as the “Families Receiving Emergency Support for Hunger” (FRESH) program, proposes offering one-time cash payments. These funds would be distributed through a state EBT card, similar to the one used for traditional benefits.

The measure does not eliminate or modify federal rules. Instead, it would step in when a family loses or sees its SNAP benefits reduced for failing to meet the new work requirements.

The central idea is to provide a temporary cushion — support that allows households to reorganize without being left completely unprotected.

How Payments Under the FRESH Program Would Work

The payment amount would depend on each family’s situation. If a SNAP benefit was reduced, the household would receive three times the difference between the previous amount and the new benefit.

If SNAP was completely canceled, the payment would equal three times the last full monthly benefit.

In other words, it would be a one-time disbursement designed to offset the immediate financial impact.

Illinois FRESH Program for People Who Lost SNAP – PHOTO: Shutterstock

Applications would be available online and at local Family and Community Resource Centers. Once an application is submitted within the designated time frame, the Department of Human Services would have 10 days to issue the payment.

The program would not be permanent — at least on paper. According to the proposal, the Illinois FRESH program would expire after January 1, 2028, unless lawmakers choose to extend it.

Criticism and Questions About Real Impact of the Illinois FRESH Program

Not everyone is convinced the measure is the best solution. Brian Costin, state director of Americans for Prosperity-Illinois, expressed reservations about the program’s design.

“I’m skeptical of one-time payments like this. There is little evidence that giving beneficiaries a large lump sum at once is an effective policy,” Costin said.

He also warned that a significant one-time payment could create more opportunities for fraud.

“Illinois should focus on SNAP fraud and program integrity,” he added, noting that the state already faces substantial challenges in that area.

Illinois FRESH Program for People Who Lost SNAP – PHOTO: Shutterstock

Data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture show that Illinois’ SNAP payment error rate reached approximately 11.56% in fiscal year 2024. That figure exceeds the national average, which is about 10.93%.

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Debate Over Work and Dependency

Costin also emphasized the importance of able-bodied adults without children participating in the workforce or volunteer activities. Citing bipartisan welfare reforms from 1996, he advocated for a work-centered reintegration approach.

“We should help people reenter life, not trap them in dependency and call it compassion,” he said. “Keeping people on welfare forever is not empowerment.”

Some critics fear that even with a 2028 expiration date, the Illinois FRESH program could eventually become permanent. Others argue it is a necessary response to federal cuts under the Trump administration.

The debate continues in the state legislature. Meanwhile, thousands of families are closely watching a proposal that could make a meaningful difference during a time of economic uncertainty.