City of Chicago, IL
05/07/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 05/08/2026 10:04
CDPH Weekly Media Brief, 05/07/2026
New SNAP Requirements as of May 1
Changes to the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) took effect on May 1, introducing new federal work and volunteer requirements that impact eligibility for food assistance benefits. These changes are affecting thousands of Illinois residents who may now face adjustments to their SNAP eligibility.
If Chicago residents have lost their food benefits, CDPH wants to let you know you are not alone. Support and resources are available:
- Speak with a Food Depository Benefits Specialist to discuss your case: 773-247-3663
- Contact the Illinois Department of Human Services Help Line: 1-800-843-6154
- Visit jobreadyil.com or serve.illinois.gov to find job training and volunteer opportunities that can help you meet SNAP work requirements and maintain eligibility
- To find a food bank near you, visit: www.chicagosfoodbank.org
Monthly WIC Site at 10 S. Kedzie
The Chicago Department of Public Health will host its recurring WIC mobilization site at 10 S. Kedzie on May 12, 2026.
A full range of WIC services will be available on-site, including eligibility screening, certification, nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and same-day issuance of benefits, allowing families to leave fully enrolled and ready to access healthy foods and support.
Hours of operation are 10 am-3 pm. For more information about WIC clinics, please visit chicago.gov/WIC.
Free Fruit and Veggies at Greater Lawn Clinic
The Greater Lawn West 55th Street WIC clinic partners with the Greater Chicago Food Depository to provide free, fresh fruits and vegetables to WIC and behavioral health clients.
Once a month, the Food Depository delivers produce to the clinic, where staff and volunteers work together to bag and distribute it directly to clients.
Distributions take place on the second Wednesday of each month from 9:30-11:00 am. The next distribution is scheduled for May 13.
Healthy Chicago Podcast
Did you know there's a group of young people between the ages of 14 and 19 who advise city leaders on today's mental health challenges and help shape policies that support youth well-being in our city?
In the Spanish-language podcast, we had an open conversation with members of the Mayor's Youth Commission Public Health Task Force about youth mental health. We explored the challenges young people face today and why it's so important to listen to their voices.
Watch or listen on the platform of your choice!
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City of Chicago, IL published this content on May 07, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on May 08, 2026 at 16:04 UTC. If you believe the information included in the content is inaccurate or outdated and requires editing or removal, please contact us at [email protected]