LSU AgCenter SNAP-Ed

Congress recently eliminated funding for SNAP-Ed. The LSU AgCenter SNAP-Ed program has served Louisiana for nearly 30 years, and we understand this change raises questions. Below are answers to some of the most common ones as we plan for the program’s closure.

❓Is SNAP-Ed officially ending in Louisiana?
Yes. SNAP-Ed is ending nationwide, including in Louisiana. The program will officially end on September 30, 2025. The LSU AgCenter will no longer be able to offer SNAP-Ed funded programming after that date.

❓Why is SNAP-Ed ending?
SNAP-Ed funding was removed from the federal budget, ending the program nationwide.

❓What services and programs are going away?
SNAP-Ed supported nutrition education and healthy living programs in schools, senior centers, food pantries, farmers markets, grocery stores, libraries, and other community spaces in almost 40 parishes. While some teaching materials may still be available, the loss of funding means fewer staff available to deliver programs and no SNAP-Ed funds for supplies for lessons, community events, or participant resources.

❓Will the LSU AgCenter still offer nutrition education?
Yes, but the way we deliver that education will change. The LSU AgCenter remains committed to improving health across Louisiana and is exploring other funding sources, partnerships, and collaborations to continue offering nutrition programs.

❓Can external organizations help fill the gap?
Not for SNAP-Ed, as the program is ending nationwide. However, we welcome collaboration on new opportunities, applying for grants, and finding creative solutions. Please reach out if you’re interested.

❓Is the LSU AgCenter leaving my parish?
No. We will continue to serve every parish. However, some Nutrition & Community Health (NCH) services may be reduced or temporarily unavailable due to staffing and funding changes.

❓ Was this decision related to LSU AgCenter’s SNAP-Ed performance?
No. Our team has a strong history of delivering high-quality, evidence-based programs. The decision was made at the federal level and affects all states.

❓Who can I talk to about concerns or next steps?
Contact Denise Holston at [email protected] or 225-578-4573.

It’s with a heavy heart that we share that the LSU AgCenter’s SNAP-Ed program will be discontinued after September 30, 2025 due to changes in federal funding.

For over 30 years, SNAP-Ed has helped thousands of Louisiana residents live healthier lives through nutrition education and community support. If you’ve ever had the joy of working with any of our SNAP-Ed team members these last three decades, you know just how much we have loved serving the people of Louisiana. We’re incredibly grateful to our partners and supporters who made this work possible.

As we prepare for this transition, our team will be reaching out to discuss any ongoing projects and how we can support a smooth transition. While this change is difficult, the LSU AgCenter’s commitment to improving the health and well-being of Louisiana families remains strong.

We will continue to share any updates here and on our website at www.LSUAgCenter.com/SNAPEd. Thank you for being part of our mission to build a healthier Louisiana.

Sincerely,
The LSU AgCenter SNAP-Ed Team

The Orleans Nutrition and Community Health Coalition, co-led by LSU AgCenter SNAP-Ed agent Dr. Emelia Clement, recently provided garden tools like shovels, hand rakes, and stakes to support Mr. Doug and the Gert Town Community Garden! This vital space helps provide the community with fresh, healthy food year-round.

Coalition members didn’t just drop off supplies. They rolled up their sleeves to help pull weeds and prep the garden for a productive season. Dr. Clement, along with LSU AgCenter EFNEP agent Tayler Jones, Rhonda Maberry of Total Community Action NOLA, Natasha Baxter of Providence Housing Inc, Luke Felty from the New Orleans Health Department, and Liz from the Louisiana Department of Health, all pitched in and cooled off together after a hard day’s work.

Thanks to their support, Gert Town will continue to grow a wide variety of fruits and vegetables to nourish the neighborhood, including figs, melons, lemons, okra, eggplant, peppers, tomatoes, greens, and corn. To learn more, message Orleans SNAP-Ed!

Helping kids stay active supports their growth, learning, and long-term health. Here are some ways your children can get regular movement:
🐾Take a walk.
💦Water the garden.
🌱Mow the lawn.
🚲Ride a bike.
🛹Roller blade or skateboard.
🏀Visit a local park.