Some Joliet residents could lose food assistance within days as a new federal work requirement tied to SNAP benefits takes effect across Illinois ahead of a May 1 deadline.
Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWD) policy requires certain adults receiving SNAP to complete at least 80 hours per month of work, job training, or approved volunteer service to remain eligible.
The change applies to individuals ages 18 to 64 who are able to work and do not have children under 14 at home.
According to the Illinois Department of Human Services, federal law requires most SNAP recipients to meet work requirements of at least 20 hours per week.
While the rule is federal, it applies statewide, meaning residents in Joliet and across Will County must follow the same guidelines.
Local food providers warn the impact could extend beyond individual households. The Greater Chicago Food Depository says SNAP plays a key role in preventing food insecurity.
Fox 32 Chicago reports 150K Illinois households may lose SNAP assistance beginning May 1st
In Will and DuPage counties, an estimated 13,000 families could be impacted, raising concerns about increased demand at local food pantries.
The Northern Illinois Food Bank, which operates a distribution center in Joliet, has also warned that SNAP changes could drive more residents to seek food assistance, with pantry visits already rising.
“For every meal we provide, SNAP provides nine,” said Danielle Perry, vice president of policy and advocacy.
That gap could strain food banks as more residents lose benefits and turn to local pantries for support, increasing pressure on already stretched resources.
For affected residents, the deadline is approaching quickly. Those who do not qualify for an exemption must begin tracking and reporting their hours.
Exemptions may apply to individuals who are pregnant or caring for young children.
State-supported job training and volunteer programs can count toward the required monthly hours.
Officials urge SNAP recipients in Joliet to review their eligibility and take action before the May 1 deadline.
Residents can contact their local Family Community Resource Center through the Illinois Department of Human Services or call the state’s SNAP help line at 1-800-843-6154 for help with reporting hours, checking exemptions, or updating their case.
Residents who need food assistance can find support through the Northern Illinois Food Bank:
- Find a local pantry or meal site:
solvehungertoday.org/get-groceries-resources - Get help with SNAP applications:
solvehungertoday.org/snap-food-stamps
Call: 844-600-SNAP - Check Mobile Food Pantry locations:
solvehungertoday.org/get-groceries-resources - Contact Northern Illinois Food Bank:
630-443-6910
