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
Attention: SNAP Rules are changing. Read on for more information.
The Arc of Monroe wants to ensure that you are aware of an important change to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.
New federal work requirements took effect on March 1 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 should be automatic- in some cases but not all..
If you were previously exempt from work requirements because you were receiving SSI or SSDI before this bill was enacted, that exemption will continue—you do not need to resubmit exemption forms. However, errors can happen. If you receive a notice requiring you to meet work requirements despite your exemption, contact your caseworker or a SNAP navigator to make sure your exemption is properly documented in the system.
If you were not previously exempt but now are, 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, or whenever your recertification comes up, 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.
New Important Information:
- Visit SaveMySNAP.org for clear information about these changes and what steps to take.
- SNAP recipients should open and read any mail from Monroe County (or their local county office) to stay up to date.
- People can check if they may be affected by using the SNAP Work Rules Screener.
- Help is available through Foodlink:
- Phone: 585-413-5091
- Email: snap@foodlinkny.org
- For those who need food support, Foodlink’s Find Food tool lists local food pantries, meal programs and pop-up pantries.
We encourage you to try the SNAP Work Rules Screener yourself and share it widely. If you can, please also support the people you work with, your coworkers, friends, or family members by helping them use this simple tool.
Public Information Sessions on SNAP Changes (Hosted by Monroe County):
- April 16, 5 to 6:30 pm
Rochester Public Library
115 South Ave, Rochester, NY - April 22, 5 to 6:30 pm
Edgerton R-Center
41 Backus St, Rochester, NY - April 27, 11 am to 1 pm
MCC Downtown Campus
321 State St, Rochester, NY - April 28, 3 to 4:30 pm
Ryan R-Center
530 Webster Ave, Rochester, NY
If you have any questions, you can contact Bekka Fifield, Advocacy Manager at the number or email below.
NYS FY27 Budget Update
While we are encouraged by Governor Hochul’s inclusion of a Targeted Inflationary Increase (TII) in the Executive Budget, the Senate and Assembly’s one-house resolutions have further recognized the growing needs of our community by proposing a 4% increase.
We are grateful for the Governor’s foundational support, and we are now calling on the Governor and Legislature to work together to adopt these enhanced priorities in the final Enacted Budget. This will ensure our frontline providers can continue their vital work without compromise. Our goals for the final budget include:
- A 4% Targeted Inflationary Increase (TII), as proposed in the one-house bills.
- The Careforce Affordability Initiative to support affordability housing, childcare and healthcare for direct care staff.
We thank our state representatives for hearing us and believing in our mission.
Your voice truly matters and with just a few clicks, you can send a message directly to your legislators asking for these items by clicking the button below.
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