Providence, R.I. (February 26, 2026) – A new wave of changes to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits are expected to take effect on March 1, 2026, and thousands of Rhode Islanders will feel the impact, particularly residents of the state’s immigrant and refugee communities.
Rhode Islanders who experience changes with their SNAP benefits, have questions about the anticipated changes, or who need information or referrals for food assistance, are encouraged to call United Way’s 211. The helpline is free, confidential, available 24/7, 365, and in multiple languages.
The revisions to SNAP benefits include reducing eligibility based on immigration status. Under the changes, many non-citizens who were previously eligible, including refugees, asylees, and victims of trafficking, could lose access to SNAP benefits unless they qualify under narrower categories. This shift means that many lawfully present immigrants who rely on SNAP to put food on the table are at risk of losing that support.
According to The Economic Progress Institute (EPI), there are approximately 2,300 people in Rhode Island who are projected to lose eligibility entirely. In addition, there are some 11,000 U.S.-citizen children in Rhode Island who are enrolled in SNAP with a non-citizen parent or guardian. If the parent/guardian becomes ineligible with the new changes, the household benefit would drop significantly.
“The constant and ongoing attack on SNAP benefits is also an attack on our most vulnerable and underserved neighbors, including thousands who can legally call Rhode Island their home,” said Cortney Nicolato, United Way’s president and CEO. “These changes, and others, will worsen food insecurity and create hardship for local families at a time too many are already struggling.”
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United Way of Rhode Island is uniting our community and resources to build racial equity and opportunities for all Rhode Islanders. As a member of the world’s largest nonprofit network, we bring together individuals, business, nonprofit, community leaders and government to tackle the root causes of inequity and achieve specific, measurable goals. Our programs include 211, the statewide front door connecting Rhode Islanders with social services, resources, and vital programs. Both directly and through grants to nonprofits, we are investing to build economic opportunity, advance childhood learning, expand philanthropy, and to drive policy and participation. To learn more, visit unitedwayri.org, or follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, or Instagram.