Families First
Connecting Families ThroughAdvocacy & Engagement
The Arc of Monroe’s Family Engagement Initiative aims to provide families with a clear, accessible entry point to advocacy, engagement, and connection with The Arc of Monroe.
SNAP Update
The Arc of Monroe wants to ensure that people we support — and their families — are aware of an important change to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.
Beginning March 1, new federal work requirements take effect for SNAP recipients ages 18–64 who do not have a child under age 14 living in the home.
Under these rules, individuals who are subject to the requirement and do not meet it — and who do not qualify for an exemption — may be limited to three months of SNAP benefits until September 30, 2026. After those three months, benefits stop unless the individual meets work requirements or qualifies for an exemption.
Starting on October 1, 2026, the next 36 month period for SNAP benefits begins. Meaning you will have another three months to recertify before you lose your benefits for this period.
Who is exempt from the new work requirements?
You may qualify for an exemption if you:
- Receive SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance)
- Receive SSI (Supplemental Security Income)
- Are medically unable to work
- Meet other disability-related criteria
Important: The exemption is not automatic.
Even if you qualify, documentation must be submitted to the Department of Social Services (DSS). If the required exemption form is not submitted within the next three months, SNAP benefits could be interrupted.
The exemption must also be submitted annually to maintain eligibility.
If you are a family member or caregiver, please review this information carefully and ensure that the required form is completed and submitted on time.If you need assistance understanding the requirements or completing the paperwork, please contact:
If you have any questions, you can contact Bekka Fifield, Advocacy Manager at the number or email below.
NYS FY27 Budget Update
The Governor’s preliminary budget includes just a 1.7% Targeted Inflationary Increase (TII) for private providers supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
We are urging lawmakers to increase that to 2.7% in the final budget. For The Arc of Monroe, that single percentage point difference means $600,000 in funding. That is the difference between stabilizing programs and continued disinvestment. That is the difference between workforce progress and workforce strain.
Last year’s rate increase had a direct, measurable impact on recruitment and retention in programs where funding reached frontline staff. Investment works. But when rates fail to keep up with inflation and rising wage pressures, providers like us are forced to stretch limited resources further each year — a cycle of disinvestment that
weakens system stability.
A 1.7% increase does not keep pace with costs. A 2.7% increase helps protect access and stability.We need your voice. Take one minute to complete the One-Click Campaign below and urge lawmakers to fund the full 2.7%.
What We Do
The Arc of Monroe empowers people to live truly integrated lives and reach their full potential within a progressive community.
Services include:
- Residential supports
- Day services and community habilitation
- Employment readiness and supported employment
- Education and skill building
- Self-advocacy and family support
- Community inclusion and recreation
Family Engagement & Advocacy
The Arc of Monroe advocates for the rights and needs of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities at the local, state, and federal levels.
Families can:
- Participate in advocacy campaigns
- Join family education/support/training sessions and community conversations
- Connect with self-advocacy groups such as Arc Alliance
- Learn how to contact elected officials and share their story
More Resources
You do not have to navigate this alone. The Arc of Monroe is here to support, connect, and advocate alongside your family.
Questions? Reach out!
Primary Family Engagement & Advocacy Contact:
Bekka Fifield, Advocacy Manager
Office: (585) 271-0660 ext. 1308
Cell: (315) 955-9310