The COVID-19 pandemic has introduced unprecedented obstacles in a time of heightended need for vulnerable populations. From November 2019 to November 2020, the number of persons participating in SNAP rose more than 10 percent. Several states have waivers that provide flexibility to help participants maintain their SNAP benefits.
Increased SNAP allotments have been extended through September 2021. This allows states the opportunity to be forward thinking in how they provide customer service opportunities to residents needing access to this critical benefit. The increase in persons seeking SNAP benefits, coupled with the reduction in states' ability to provide in-person assistance has resulted in a need for rapid, creative solutions.
