LaPointe & Martwick to Host Informational Event on SNAP & Food Assistance Changes on Far Northwest Side

​CHICAGO, Ill. – State Rep. Lindsey LaPointe, D-Chicago, and State Senator Rob Martwick, D-Chicago, will join the Greater Chicago Food Depository and several Far Northwest Side human service organizations to host an informational community event that unpacks federal changes to SNAP on Thursday, February 5th, from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at Friendship Community Place (5150 N. Northwest Hwy).

“We know many of our Far Northwest Side neighbors struggle with rising costs. On top of this, the federal government’s changes to SNAP starting February 1st create additional burdens for our local families when it comes to food access,” said LaPointe. “By hosting this event, we’re setting our neighbors up for success, ensuring that no one accidentally loses their benefits because of an administrative misstep or red tape. We also aim to connect area residents to local organizations, including our food pantries, who can help with future recertifications and offer volunteer opportunities.”

Changes to SNAP’s certification process come after President Trump signed H.R. 1 in July 2025, sometimes referred to as the “Big Beautiful Bill.” The biggest changes to SNAP include reapplications every six months instead of annually and a 80 hours per month work or volunteer requirement for able-bodied adults between the ages of 18 and 64. Examples of exemptions to work or volunteer requirements include disabilities, active behavioral health treatment, families with children under 14, and chronic homelessness—all of which require proactive paperwork. These changes go into effect February 1, 2026, and neighbors on SNAP have until May 1, 2026, to meet these requirements or receive an exemption.

The event will offer both SNAP recipients and local organizations critical information on the changes, as well as opportunities to network and connect so area SNAP recipients can fulfill the federal government’s work or volunteer requirement.

A regular weekly hot meal will be provided by Friendship Community Place directly before the event, from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

For more information, please contact Rep. LaPointe’s District Office at info@replapointe.com or call (773) 647-1174.