Budgets are about values. The federal budget reflects what—and who—we value as a nation. As Congress debates the federal budget and annual funding bills, a critical program hangs in the balance: the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
For UFCW 880 members, SNAP isn’t just another government program—it’s directly connected to our livelihoods and the communities we serve.
The SNAP-UFCW Connection: Jobs, Hours and Wages
As the union that puts food on America’s tables, UFCW understands the food system better than most. We know that a safe and abundant food supply benefits everyone—our workers, businesses and communities nationwide.
SNAP plays a crucial role in this ecosystem:
- 80% of SNAP dollars are spent at traditional grocery stores where UFCW members work
- More dollars in the hands of SNAP recipients means more hours and higher wages for grocery store workers
- The program provides a critical safety net that protects families from hunger while simultaneously supporting jobs in the grocery sector
This direct relationship between SNAP funding and grocery employment makes supporting this program a priority for our union. Every dollar cut from SNAP means fewer resources flowing into the grocery stores that employ our members.
A Program That Works
SNAP is one of America’s most effective anti-poverty programs. It helps approximately 41 million Americans put food on their tables while stimulating local economies. For every $1 spent on SNAP benefits, it generates about $1.50-$1.80 in economic activity.
For grocery workers, this economic multiplier means job security. It means reliable hours. It means sustainable wages.
What’s at Stake
Currently, Congress is considering potential reductions in SNAP funding. These cuts would:
- Reduce resources available to families in need
- Decrease spending at grocery stores where our members work
- Potentially lead to reduced hours or positions for grocery employees
- Harm local economies where those dollars would have been spent
Time for Action: Protect SNAP
We must make our voices heard. Congress needs to understand that SNAP is not just an assistance program—it’s an economic driver that supports jobs for UFCW members across the country.
TAKE ACTION NOW: Tell Congress to protect SNAP funding
Your representatives need to hear directly from you about why protecting SNAP matters. It takes just two minutes to send a message that could help protect this vital program.
Together, our collective voice can make a difference in ensuring Congress maintains full funding for SNAP in the upcoming budget.
Standing United for SNAP
As food workers, we understand better than most the importance of food security. We see firsthand how programs like SNAP help families make ends meet while supporting the very stores where we work.
When we fight for SNAP, we’re fighting for our communities and our jobs. We’re standing up for a program that benefits workers and families alike.
Join us in urging Congress to protect SNAP benefits. Take action today.
UFCW Local 880 is an inclusive, member-driven union in Northeast Ohio and Western Pennsylvania representing more than 20,000 hard working people. Our members work in grocery stores, packing and processing facilities, retail stores, healthcare facilities and more. They work hard for a better life. Together, we win strong contracts and higher wages, reaffirm the dignity of workers and give them a voice on the job. We organize for better working conditions, stronger communities and a brighter future.
