In October 2024, nearly two million residents of Illinois, with a significant portion in Cook County, depended on federal food assistance. According to the Illinois Department of Human Services, over 1.99 million individuals or approximately 1.09 million households relied on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits to meet their basic nutritional needs. Despite a slight decrease compared to the previous year, SNAP usage remains notably higher than pre-pandemic levels, reflecting ongoing economic struggles for many families. The state's high unemployment rate and slow job growth since the pandemic have exacerbated these issues, underscoring the need for comprehensive policy reforms to promote economic stability.

The reliance on federal food assistance has seen a substantial increase since 2019, with about 212,000 more residents using SNAP benefits. This trend highlights the economic challenges faced by Illinois families following the COVID-19 pandemic. With an unemployment rate of 5.3%, Illinois ranks third-highest nationally and faces one of the slowest recovery rates among neighboring states. The state's low social mobility potential further complicates efforts to help low-income residents improve their financial situations. Illinois has the ninth-highest share of residents using SNAP benefits, particularly prominent in the Midwest, with more than one in seven people receiving federal food aid.

Data from various counties reveal wide disparities in SNAP usage across Illinois. Alexander and Pulaski counties have the highest concentration of recipients, with one-third of residents and over half of all households receiving benefits. Conversely, McHenry County has the lowest participation rate at about 6.8%. Cook County, home to approximately 41% of the state's population, accounts for 46% of statewide SNAP recipients. Chicago, which makes up 54.7% of Cook County’s households, represents 67% of its SNAP recipients and about 31% of all SNAP-receiving households in Illinois. These figures underscore the city's pivotal role in driving participation rates.

While SNAP provides essential support, rising living costs mean that benefits often fall short of covering basic needs. Governor J.B. Pritzker's plan to eliminate the 1% grocery tax in 2026 aims to offer some relief, but local municipalities have already reinstated it. Addressing food insecurity requires broader policy interventions. Key reforms should focus on removing regulatory barriers, enhancing social safety nets to encourage skill development and career advancement, and tackling long-term fiscal issues to enable tax relief and stimulate economic growth. By implementing these changes, Illinois can work towards building a more prosperous future for all its residents.