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Chautauqua County legislators ask staff to study Feedmore-style contract as SNAP, HEAP distributions stall
Summary
At an emergency Nov. 5 meeting, Chautauqua County legislators heard county officials outline limits on replacing federal SNAP and HEAP benefits, were briefed on local emergency measures, and asked staff to evaluate a voucher/contract model proposed by a local pantry volunteer to ensure accountability for county support.
Chautauqua County legislators met in an emergency session on Nov. 5, 2025, to review disruptions to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and federally funded heating assistance after a federal funding lapse and to consider local responses. County officials described daily coordination with the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance and said the county cannot legally or financially cover full lost SNAP benefits.
The meeting focused on immediate needs and contingency options. "I'm requesting that 2 initiatives be approved by this legislature," volunteer Connie Griffith told the body, urging short-term releases of unallocated county funds to pantries and a contract model like Erie County's relationship with Feedmore Western New York to provide vouchers and financial accountability. Carmelo…
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