As food costs rise and financial pressures mount, many Vermilion seniors are struggling to afford basic necessities. A newly introduced bill in the Ohio House, HB 178, aims to provide relief by increasing Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits for older residents across the state.
State Representatives Daniel Troy (D-Willowick) and Josh Williams (R-Sylvania Township) are pushing for the legislation, which would require the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services to raise the minimum SNAP benefit for seniors to $50 per month. This increase would be state-funded and specifically assist those aged 60 and older currently receiving less than $50 in monthly benefits.
For Vermilion’s senior community, many of whom have faced reduced benefits since the end of the public health emergency, this legislation could offer much-needed relief. Currently, over 70,000 Ohio households with older adults have seen their SNAP benefits drop to just $23 per month, a fraction of what they previously received during the emergency period.
Joree Novotny, Executive Director of the Ohio Association of Foodbanks, noted that food insecurity among seniors has skyrocketed. From 2014 to 2024, the number of older Ohioans seeking food assistance increased by 133%, with a 70% rise in just the last five years. In Vermilion, local food pantries have reported a growing number of seniors relying on their services as they struggle to balance the rising costs of food, housing, and medication.
Local food assistance programs are working hard to support seniors, but they are facing increased demand:
- The Salvation Army Food Pantry in Vermilion provides groceries and essentials to those in need.
- The Free Fridge at Ritter Public Library is a 24/7 resource stocked with donated food, ensuring no one goes hungry.
- Second Harvest Food Bank operates mobile pantries across the area, offering fresh food to residents in need.
- Grace’s Kitchen provides free, freshly prepared meals to Vermilion residents in need, including many seniors who rely on these nutritious meals to supplement their limited food budgets.
These resources rely on donations and volunteers. As demand rises, community members are encouraged to support them by donating non-perishable food items, fresh produce, or financial contributions. Even small donations can help ensure that Vermilion’s seniors don’t have to choose between food, medicine, and other necessities.
The proposed increase in SNAP benefits is estimated to cost the state between $35 million and $40 million over two years. It would require reauthorization in the next state budget to continue beyond the biennium. Troy has also introduced the bill’s language as an amendment to Ohio’s biennial Operating Budget Bill (HB 96), which could expedite its adoption by the end of June.
HB 178 has been assigned to the House Community Revitalization Committee and is awaiting its first hearing. If passed, this legislation could make a significant impact on the lives of Vermilion seniors, ensuring that fewer residents have to rely solely on food pantries and other emergency services to meet their basic nutritional needs.
As the bill moves forward, local advocates encourage Vermilion residents to stay informed and voice their support for policies that protect the well-being of older Ohioans. For many, an increase in SNAP benefits isn’t just about food—it’s about dignity, security, and the ability to live independently with peace of mind.
Seniors and supporters who want to see this bill passed can contact their local state representatives to express their concerns and advocate for change. Reaching out is simple—call, email, or write a letter explaining why HB 178 matters. Residents can find their representatives’ contact information on the Ohio House of Representatives website or by calling the Ohio Legislative Information Office. Making your voice heard can help ensure that lawmakers understand the urgent need for increased SNAP benefits and the impact this legislation could have on Vermilion’s senior community.
