Safety net programs such as energy assistance and emergency relief keep families and individuals safe. VPLC works to improve how these benefits are delivered, holding government agencies accountable when systems fail and making access easier for everyone. We fight for policies that reduce administrative burdens, protect due process, and ensure low-income Virginians can get the support they need without unnecessary barriers or delays.
Our work in this area includes:
Removing Barriers to Benefits
Applying for public benefits shouldn’t require navigating confusing systems or endless paperwork. We work to ensure eligibility and enrollment processes are clear, fair, and centered on people—not bureaucracy. Our efforts include:
- Advocating for accessible, user-friendly enrollment systems that don’t exclude eligible Virginians.
- Partnering with state agencies to streamline benefit renewals and reduce red tape.
- Ensuring fair procedures when benefits are denied, delayed, or terminated.
Administrative Procedure Act (APA) Reform
When someone loses access to benefits, they deserve a clear explanation and a fair process. We’re working to modernize Virginia’s APA to ensure greater transparency and accountability in agency decisions. We advocate for:
- Requiring agencies to explain decisions in writing with clear policy citations.
- Mandating procedural safeguards for low-income individuals facing benefit loss.
- Promoting consistent, rights-based decision-making across public benefit programs.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
SNAP is a lifeline for families facing food insecurity—but too many eligible Virginians still fall through the cracks. We work to remove barriers and expand access to this essential program. Our work includes:
- Managing the SNAP Calculator to help families understand and estimate benefits.
- Advocating for equitable access for seniors, immigrants, and college students.
- Monitoring state practices to ensure timely and accurate benefit distribution.
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
TANF should offer a real path to stability rather than punishment. We work to make the program more responsive to families’ needs and financial realities. We advocate for:
- Increasing monthly payments to reflect the true cost of living.
- Reducing punitive eligibility rules that block access.
- Ensuring funds are used directly to benefit families—not diverted elsewhere.
Universal Basic Income Pilots
We believe bold solutions are needed to reduce poverty and promote economic dignity. That’s why we’re supporting basic income pilot programs that give families more stability and choice. Our role includes:
- Partnering with localities and organizations to design income pilot programs.
- Studying the impact of guaranteed income on health, housing, and financial well-being.
- Advocating for scalable, evidence-based approaches to income security.
Woman, Infants, and Children (WIC)
WIC plays a critical role in supporting maternal and child health, but gaps in access persist. We work to modernize the program and ensure all families can benefit. Our efforts include:
- Advocating for expanded eligibility and simplified documentation requirements.
- Supporting digital tools that make WIC easier to use.
- Promoting equitable access for non-English speakers and rural families.
Our Healthy Community Advocates
Connecting Families with Food Benefits
Featured:
Online SNAP Calculator Helps in a Few Quick Questions
VPLC is committed to helping food insecure Virginia families, many with children, handicapped or elderly household members, connect with the resources they need. The free SNAP calculator helps Virginians determine whether they're eligible for SNAP benefits just by answering a few questions online.
View the SNAP Calculator
