One year ago, the government shutdown put SNAP benefits in question for more than 700,000 Tennesseans.The number one program to fight hunger was suddenly unavailable. Parents were skipping meals, food banks were overwhelmed, and neighbors were left wondering when they would see November benefits hit their cards. Tennessee saw firsthand how harmful it would be if SNAP didn't exist.

Martin lived in that shelter for two years before being able to move into subsidized housing. Martin states that access to SNAP was integral to getting back on his feet and into stable housing. Then the rules changed. Under HR 1, the age range for SNAP work requirements for adults without dependents was changed from 18-54 to 18-64. At age 60, Martin is no longer exempt and must now meet work requirements.