Why This Initiative Matters
The City of Alexandria DCHS, Workforce Development Center (WDC), and Volunteer Alexandria are partnering with community organizations to support residents impacted by new Federal work requirements.
Federal changes to SNAP and Medicaid eligibility may affect many residents in our community. Community organizations, nonprofits, employers, faith-based organizations, volunteers, and other partners can play an important role in helping residents stay connected to benefits, employment, education, training, and volunteer opportunities.
Community partners can help by sharing information about these changes with residents, clients, employees, congregations, and community members.
The H.R. 1 (One Big Beautiful Bill Act) was signed into law in July 2025, and additional changes have since been enacted to implement the new federal requirements. New federal work requirements are expected to affect an estimated 107 SNAP participants and 3,954 Medicaid recipients in Alexandria. Changes to SNAP requirements are being implemented now, with new Medicaid requirements scheduled to begin in January 2027.
Changes will be implemented on a rolling basis as individuals renew or have their benefits re-evaluated. Some residents may be subject to new work or participation requirements, changes in eligibility rules, or additional documentation requirements. Residents who do not meet the applicable requirements may be at risk of losing their benefits and should connect with workforce, training, education, volunteer, and other community resources for support.
Help residents find the support they need by connecting them with:
- Workforce services and employment opportunities
- Job training and career development programs
- Education and vocational training
- Vocational ESL programs
- Volunteer opportunities
- Food assistance and other community resources
- Benefits and eligibility information
Some residents may need to complete approved activities to maintain their benefits. Community partners can help by:
- Sharing information about available employment and training programs
- Connecting residents to meaningful volunteer opportunities
- Offering accessible opportunities that fit different abilities and schedules
- Helping residents understand how to document participation and volunteer hours
- Encouraging residents to keep records of their activities
Become a Community Partner
Your organization can help residents by offering employment, training, education, or volunteer opportunities. Partnerships can help residents build skills, gain experience, strengthen community connections, and meet qualifying participation requirements.
Interested in partnering with us? Connect with the Workforce Development Center to learn how your organization can support Alexandria residents. (Email us: wdc@alexandriava.gov).
Volunteer Alexandria
Volunteer Alexandria connects residents with local organizations that need volunteers. Organizations can post volunteer opportunities and help residents find meaningful ways to serve their community while maintaining benefit stability.
Volunteer opportunities can also help residents:
- Build skills and gain experience
- Strengthen their work history
- Connect with their community
- Develop professional and personal networks
- Track participation and volunteer hours
Learn more about Volunteer Alexandria HERE: Volunteer Alexandria | Organizations
Have Questions?
For questions about the new federal policies or how they may affect residents, please email us or visit our website at the Workforce Development Center for additional information and resources. wdc@alexandriava.gov
Workforce Development Center Business Services | City of Alexandria, VA
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