STATE News:

SANTA FE — The New Mexico Association of Food Banks applauds the New Mexico Legislature and the Office of Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham for swift and proactive action during the 2025 Special Session to protect families from the harmful impact of federal cuts to basic needs programs.

When Congress passed the federal reconciliation bill in July, more than 54,000 New Mexicans, including seniors, veterans, and people experiencing homelessness, faced a potential, immediate risk of losing their Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. SNAP, previously known as food stamps, provides critical grocery dollars for families already struggling to make ends meet.

By passing House Bill 1, the New Mexico Legislature showed its commitment to stabilizing families and strengthening the state’s food security network.

The bill’s funding will:

• Support continued access to SNAP benefits for elders, people with disabilities, and lawfully present residents.
• Assist families navigating new federal rules by funding additional Health Care Authority staff to help people reapply for SNAP and meet new work requirements.
• Modernize the technology system at the Health Care Authority to keep SNAP applications moving and state agencies responsive.
• Strengthen the New Mexico food security network with funding for New Mexico’s five food banks and capacity building for their network of food security partners.
• Expand pantry programs in education centers, including schools, early childhood centers, and higher education institutions, to provide food access in a safe and dignified way.

“This legislation strengthens the social safety net,” explains President Jill Dixon of the New Mexico Association of Food Banks.” At a time when federal cuts threaten to leave thousands of people without food assistance, our state leaders stepped up to make sure families continue to receive benefits. Their investment will keep nutritious food on the table of New Mexicans and support state agencies who make safety net programs possible.”

New Mexico Association of Food Banks

The New Mexico Association of Food Banks includes five food banks that support a network of more than 550 nonprofit food distribution partners. New Mexico food banks include ECHO, Inc. in Farmington, The Community Pantry in Gallup, the Food Bank of Eastern New Mexico in Clovis, The Food Depot in Santa Fe, and Roadrunner Food Bank in Albuquerque. Together, the food banks provide services to all 33 counties in New Mexico. The food banks thank legislators for their leadership and commitment to families during this critical moment.

The Food Depot

In 2024, The Food Depot distributed more than 8.5 million meals across Northern New Mexico. Fruits and vegetables made up 60 percent of all food provided. Join the food secure movement today by donating, advocating, or volunteering.