A Message from County Executive

Adam J. Bello:

Dear Friends,

Last summer, the federal government enacted significant cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), including new work requirements for certain recipients. SNAP helps put food on the table for thousands of families in our community every day, and these changes will directly impact many of our neighbors.

Monroe County is here to help those impacted by these changes.

First, we encourage you to attend an upcoming Town Hall to learn more about the new requirements. Whether you currently receive SNAP benefits or want to support a friend, neighbor, or family member, this is an opportunity to better understand what these changes mean for our community.

Also, under the new rules, more SNAP participants must complete work or volunteer activities to maintain their benefits. As a result, the need for structured volunteer opportunities has grown substantially. We urgently need additional community-based organizations to step forward and provide meaningful volunteer work experiences.

If your organization is able to help, please see the link below for more information. I'm grateful to our community partners for helping us share this critical information and for providing this hands-on support to those who need it most.

Adam

What's New

SNAP Work Rule Changes

The new federal work requirements for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) took effect on March 1. If you receive SNAP benefits — or know someone who does — I encourage you to attend one of our upcoming town hall meetings. You’ll get clear, accurate information about the changes, have the opportunity to ask questions, and learn what steps you may need to take to keep your benefits.

Learn More

In Case You Missed It

Infrastructure Investment

Thanks to the support of Senator Schumer and Congressman Morelle, a more than $1 million appropriation was signed into law to fund critical infrastructure upgrades at the Northwest Quadrant Water Resource Recovery Facility in the town of Greece. These improvements to Monroe County’s sewer system will enhance the facility’s ability to efficiently remove large debris — including foreign objects, branches, and other obstructions — at the very start of the wastewater treatment process. This investment represents a significant step forward in the County’s ongoing commitment to modernizing its wastewater treatment operations and the improving long-term sustainability of the system.

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ESL Ballpark

The renaming of downtown’s baseball stadium to ESL Ballpark reflects a strong partnership between ESL Federal Credit Union, the Rochester Red Wings, and Monroe County. This is a powerful example of public-private collaboration that will strengthen the community. Special thanks to Naomi Silver and Faheem Masood for their leadership in launching a new chapter of investment in our community.

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STOP DWI Media Contest

In Monroe County, alcohol has contributed to over 61% of crashes involving young drivers. The STOP-DWI High School Media Contest asked students to help us reach their peers by creating PSAs about the dangers of impaired driving. The winning entries were authentic, powerful, and exactly what was needed to help prevention efforts succeed.

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StormReady Recertification

Nearly 98 percent of federally declared disasters are weather-related. Preparedness is not optional. It is essential. Monroe County has been recertified as StormReady by the National Weather Service reaffirming our 24/7 readiness, stronger alerts, and commitment to protecting lives before, during, and after the storm.

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In The Community

Black History Month Celebration

Black history is U.S. history. During Black History month, we celebrated the contributions, leadership, and lasting legacy of Black residents who have helped shape Monroe County—and whose influence continues to shape our nation.

Happy Valentine's Day

Valentine’s Day is about showing love for the people and community we’ve built up around us. Every year, I enjoy visiting senior centers to spend time with residents who also love to call Monroe County home.

Students Exploring Careers

Students in East Irondequoit High School’s AVID Program are exploring their futures by learning about different career paths. I was grateful for the invitation—it was a true pleasure to share my story and answer their thoughtful questions.

Alta Vista Apartments

Affordable housing is one of the most transformative investments our community can make. We recently celebrated the opening of Alta Vista Apartments at St. Joseph’s Park – a project that turned a vacant lot into 76 sustainable apartments with supportive services and modern amenities. Thanks to Ibero, the City of Rochester and COMIDA for their leadership on this project.

Teddi Dance for Love

Students, faculty, and community members at St. John Fisher University came together in an incredible show of spirit and generosity at the 44th annual Teddi Dance for Love, raising more than $1 million for Camp Good Days and Special Times. Their efforts will help thousands of children and families experience camp and special programs — completely free of charge.

Get Involved

SNAP ABAWD Volunteer Opportunites

Community-based organizations are encouraged to share potential volunteer opportunities for SNAP ABAWD individuals who need them to complete required service hours to receive benefits. Interested organizations should follow the link to add their information to the portal.

List an Opportunity

Mark Your Calendars

Tops Rochester St. Patrick's Day Parade

Get ready to wear green! Monroe County is home to over 106,000 community members with Irish roots. I hope you will join us downtown on March 14 for the annual Tops Rochester St. Patrick’s Day Parade and celebrate our robust Irish American Heritage!

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Be part of something BIGGER.

Work for Monroe County.

See our open opportunities.

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