Florida SNAP participation drops nearly 20% and UP Orlando is covering the gap.

ORLANDO, Fla. — In Florida, SNAP participation has dropped nearly 20% since July 2025, after new federal rules passed in February 2026 tightened SNAP eligibility and expanded work requirements.

“I was on food stamps. And then when I did my reapply, I didn’t get approved,” shared Brianna, who signed up for the Member Share Grocery Program after her recent SNAP denial.

These changes are taking effect for benefit recipients on a rolling basis, so as we move through the year, we are just beginning to see the true impact, according to Executive Director, Anjali Vaya. United Against Poverty Orlando has already seen a sharp increase in new memberships, including families with children, and expects the number to continue rising.