Statement prepared by: Food Bank of Lincoln and Food Bank for the Heartland

 We are deeply disappointed by the recent passage of the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act.” This legislation will have a profound impact on Nebraskans facing hunger for years to come by threatening access to food and healthcare, especially in our rural communities.

Cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Medicaid come at a time when food insecurity in Nebraska is already at historic levels. An estimated 287,240 people (1 in 7)—including more than 91,000 children (1 in 5)—are facing hunger in our state, according to Feeding America’s 2025 Map the Meal Gap Report.

SNAP is the nation’s most effective anti-hunger program, helping 155,000 Nebraskans put food on the table. The restrictions and reductions imposed on this proven program will further exacerbate the hunger crisis, resulting in increased demand within an already overwhelmed charitable food system.

While the outcome of this bill is not what we advocated for, we are grateful to everyone who lent their voice in support of healthier communities. Alongside our network of more than 550 pantry and community partners, we remain committed to exploring innovative solutions and forming new partnerships that ensure sustained access to nutritious food.

Advocacy is a vital step toward achieving our mission and alleviating hunger in Nebraska. Our work doesn’t stop here. We will continue to engage with our communities, neighbors, policymakers, retailers, partners, volunteers, and donors to ensure all Nebraskans have consistent access to the food they need to thrive.

To learn more about how you can lend your voice to the fight against hunger, visit our advocacy page.