HWCLI Presents a Virtual Convening on:

Protecting Food Security and Family Well-Being on Long Island

Dear HWCLI Network,

Recent SNAP benefit losses among Suffolk County residents are raising important questions about food security, family well-being, and health across Long Island. HWCLI is bringing Long Island partners together for a virtual convening to discuss what these changes mean for individuals and families, the broader impact on our communities, and how we can work together to identify collaborative solutions.

Join HWCLI for "Protecting Food Security and Family Well-Being on Long Island" next Thursday, October 15th from 1:00–2:00 PM via Zoom. Register now at tinyurl.com/HWCLIPROTECTSNAP. Registration is required.

This conversation is intended for Long Island organizations, service providers, advocates, and community partners working to support individuals and families, including those in food security, healthcare, human services, education, policy, advocacy, and community-based organizations.

Why This Conversation Matters

As highlighted in a recent Newsday article, nearly 11% of Suffolk County SNAP recipients have lost benefits from February through July 2026, by far the highest level in the state and more than double the percentage in New York City.

The impact of SNAP disenrollment is not being felt equally across Long Island, making it especially important for organizations and community partners to come together, share what they are seeing, and explore opportunities for collaboration. “SNAP benefits serve as a lifeline for individuals and for families", said HWCLI President & CEO Vanessa Baird-Streeter. "There's going to be more families that don't have adequate food to be able to provide for themselves or their families. And that is devastating.”

The impact of SNAP disenrollment is not being felt equally across Long Island, making it especially important for organizations and community partners to come together, share what they are seeing, and explore opportunities for collaboration.

Established in 1947, the Health and Welfare Council of Long Island (HWCLI) is a regional, nonprofit umbrella organization for health and human service providers dedicated to improving the lives of Long Island’s most vulnerable residents by responding to their needs through the promotion and development of public policies and direct services. To learn more, visit www.hwcli.org or call 516-483-1110.