SNAP-Ed FY26 Update

The United States Congress passed a budget reconciliation bill that has eliminated federal funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program-Education (SNAP-Ed).

We understand you may have questions about the future of SNAP-Ed as well as the UAF Cooperative Extension Service more broadly. Below is a list of answers to some of the questions you might have as we close out the program.

Thank you for all you have done and all you continue to do to make Alaska healthier and stronger.

  1. Has the SNAP-Ed program officially ended in Alaska?
    Yes. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program鈥揈ducation (SNAP-Ed) is officially ending nationally on September 30, 2025. As a result, UAF CES will no longer deliver SNAP-Ed-funded programs after that date.
     
  2. Why is SNAP-Ed ending?
    SNAP-Ed funding was eliminated from the federal budget, effectively discontinuing the program nationwide.
     
  3. What specific services/programs are going away?
    SNAP-Ed funding has supported many of the educational programs delivered at community sites, such as schools, farmers' markets, and food pantries. While UAF CES will retain access to most of the curricula used, the elimination of SNAP-Ed funding means SNAP-Ed programming will no longer be offered.

    Extension personnel may still use SNAP-Ed curricula, but will need to identify alternative funding sources and partners to cover program delivery costs. SNAP-Ed curricula include:


  4. Will UAF CES still offer nutrition or health-related education?
    Yes. CES continues to prioritize the health and well-being of Alaskans. However, with there no longer being SNAP-Ed funding, this work will look different.

  5. Can external organizations help CES fill the gap?
    No. Termination of federal funding means there is no longer infrastructure to support the program. We welcome opportunities to co-develop new programs, apply for joint funding, or provide services through partnerships. Please reach out to start the conversation.

  6. Is UAF CES leaving my community?
    While SNAP-Ed funding and programming is ending, our broader educational and outreach mission continues, including nutrition and health education.

  7. Was this decision due to problems with the UAF CES SNAP-Ed program?
    No. The UAF CES SNAP-Ed program had a strong record of success and community impact. The decision to remove SNAP-Ed from Alaska was made at the federal level and does not reflect program quality or outcomes. The federal decision eliminates SNAP-Ed funding nationwide starting in FY26.

  8. Who can I talk to about concerns or next steps?
    Partner organizations or media can reach out to:

Jenn Wagaman

Email: jewagaman@alaska.edu