Scherer Introduces Resolution to Advocate SNAP Benefits for Foster Families

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – While foster families continue to face obstacles that limit their access to nutritious food, state Rep. Sue Scherer, D-Decatur, recently presented a resolution that calls on the federal government to automatically qualify foster families for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.

“The extra SNAP benefits that recipients were receiving recently ended at the end of February, making it more difficult for foster families to obtain food,” said Scherer. “The lack of assistance for these families is troubling, and it is clear that we must take more action.”

Scherer’s House Resolution 75 urges the federal government to update SNAP guidelines to automatically qualify foster families for the program. Foster families are at a higher risk for food insecurity and poverty, making them often reliant on state assistance programs to make ends meet. The legislation would give foster families one less thing to worry about, as they would automatically be able to receive these critical resources.

“Foster parents carry a great load by caring for our children who are in unfortunate circumstances,” said Scherer. “We must continue to look for ways to utilize resources to unburden and support them.”