Moline City staff told the City Council they will distribute food-voucher packets in November and on Dec. 13 to help residents facing the SNAP disruption, using $25,000 in city funds plus a 10% donation from Hy-Vee to assist roughly 125 families per event.

The program, described to the council during the informational agenda, will operate at City Hall in November (doors open at 8:00 a.m.) and at the City Service Center on Dec. 13. Staff said eligibility can be verified most quickly by existing EBT/SNAP cards, an Illinois medical card, or proof of free or reduced school lunch, combined with a valid Illinois ID and a piece of recent mail showing the applicant’s address.

“Hy-Vee donates 10% to the vouchers,” the presenter said, describing the voucher packaging and the rationale for multiple voucher denominations so recipients do not lose funds at checkout.

City legal counsel cautioned the council that recent changes in federal enforcement have complicated the use of federal funds for direct benefits. “In July 2025, the attorney general rescinded that blanket exemption,” counsel said, noting the 1996 law that limits use of certain federal funds for people without appropriate immigration status had not been enforced for years because of a prior exemption. Counsel said the city has adjusted the funding mix—reducing or eliminating federal contributions where necessary—to avoid triggering verification requirements that could expose grant signatories to civil or criminal penalties.

Council members praised staff for designing the local response and for coordinating with neighboring townships. Alderman Schmidt thanked staff and legal staff for addressing compliance questions, while Alderman Murphy urged broad outreach; staff said social media and neighborhood networks will be used and that partners in Rock Island and township offices are preparing complementary efforts.

Staff emphasized the program has capacity limits and encouraged residents who qualify to bring existing proof of eligibility to streamline the distribution. No formal council vote was required for the informational item; staff will proceed with the announced schedule and follow up on outreach details.