By Sen. Cory McCray
Special to the AFRO
Despite economists’ reports of a thriving economy, many everyday people, including our neighbors, struggle to make ends meet. The challenge of keeping the lights on, paying bills, and putting healthy food on the table is a common narrative among my district’s constituents, especially seniors. Consider a retiree, the backbone of our community who has contributed a great deal to society, now forced to choose between purchasing essential medications or adequately heating their home. Fixed incomes further exacerbate this reality for many older adults in our community.
In response to these pressing needs, various assistance programs have been implemented, though they often require adjustment to meet evolving challenges.
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) has been a lifeline for many grappling with these daily challenges. However, even this crucial support sometimes falls short, especially for our older neighbors. This has been particularly true in recent years as inflation has driven prices, including those at grocery stores, to record highs. While GDP figures and stock market indices may soar, they often fail to capture the struggles of ordinary families. This stark disconnect between macroeconomic indicators and the lived experiences of everyday people underscores the need for targeted assistance programs.
That’s where Maryland’s recent legislative efforts come into play, aiming to bridge the gap between statistical prosperity and actual well-being for our most vulnerable residents.
During the 2024 Legislative Session, I was proud to sponsor Senate Bill 35, which increases Maryland’s supplemental assistance to specific individuals under this federal program. Currently, the federal government provides a minimum monthly SNAP benefit of just $23. In 2016 and 2022, Maryland took steps forward, providing supplemental increases above the federal level for households with a member over 62. But we knew we could do better.
When I first entered the Senate chamber, my goal, shared with Del. Emily Shetty of Montgomery County, was to increase the monthly benefit to at least $95 per individual and remove the minimum eligibility age. The fight was uphill, and I applaud organizations across the state, such as Maryland Hunger Solutions, for their tireless efforts to ease the burden on Marylanders. Ultimately, we achieved a victory that lowered the age requirement from 62 to 60 and increased the minimum state benefit from $40 to $50 a month.
Signed by Gov. Wes Moore on April 25, 2024, the legislation will make more people eligible and invest an additional $4.2 million in SNAP benefits in fiscal year 2025. By expanding benefits and increasing the amount, we are throwing a vital lifeline to senior citizens in the 45th District, in the city, and across the state who are dealing with food insecurity.
This legislation builds on our previous work to combat food insecurity, such as Senate Bill 218 (2019), sponsored with Del. Pam Queen, which provided summer SNAP benefits to ensure children in low-income households receive additional food assistance when school is out. Additionally, Senate Bill 116 (2019) with Del. Charkoudian expanded the definition of “complete streets design features” to include access to healthy food retail stores, particularly in food deserts.
The upcoming Lidl grocery store in the Somerset Community is another piece of the puzzle, bringing affordable, nutritious options to an underserved area. Combined with the expanded SNAP benefits taking effect on Oct. 1, we’re making real progress in the fight against hunger.
While these steps represent significant progress, our work is far from over. The challenges facing our seniors and vulnerable populations continue to evolve, demanding our ongoing attention and action. Looking ahead, we must push for even more comprehensive policies and resources to ensure that no one, especially our seniors, are faced with these dilemmas. This might include further expansions of SNAP benefits, increased funding for affordable housing, or other innovative programs.
As we celebrate our recent victories, let’s also recommit ourselves to the ongoing fight against food insecurity and poverty. By continuing to work together – legislators, community organizations, and citizens – we can build a Maryland where economic dignity is a reality for all, not just a promise.
With these efforts, we are not just addressing immediate needs but laying the foundation for a more equitable and compassionate society. Let’s keep pushing forward, ensuring that everyone in Maryland can live with dignity and security.
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