In the ever-changing landscape of America’s social services, ProPublica is committed to uncovering the real-world impacts of policy shifts on those who rely on the safety net. From the persistent issue of electronic benefit transfer theft to the latest federal policy changes in SNAP and Medicaid we’re dedicated to telling the stories that matter.
To gain a comprehensive understanding, we’re reaching out to the individuals who know these programs best: the state and local eligibility workersintake specialists and social services administrators who navigate these systems daily. Your firsthand experiences and insights are invaluable in shedding light on how these policies affect everyday lives.
Navigating the new landscape of social services
recent changes in federal policies have introduced new work requirements shifts in cost-sharing between the federal government and states, and enhanced efforts to combat fraud. These changes have significant implications for how social services are administered and accessed. We’re interested in hearing how your agency or state is adapting to these new realities.
Have you noticed any priorities being pushed to the wayside as a result of these changes? How has the implementation of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act affected your work? Your perspective can help us understand the broader implications of these policy shifts on communities across the country.
The human side of policy changes
At ProPublica, we believe that the true impact of policy changes is best understood through the stories of those directly affected. If you’ve experienced recent changes to your SNAP or Medicaid benefits, we want to hear from you. Your story can provide crucial insights into how these policies are playing out on the ground.
Whether you’re a current or former worker in the social services sector or an individual affected by these changes, your input is vital. We encourage you to share your experiences, concerns, and observations. Our reporters are committed to listening and following up on the issues that matter most to you.
How you can contribute
To share your insights, please fill out our brief online form. Your responses will help guide our reporting and ensure that we’re focusing on the issues that matter most to you. If you prefer to reach out directly, you can email us at safety-net@. For secure communication, you can also contact reporter Eli Hager via Signal at 301-758-2768 or reporter Cassandra Garibay at 707-234-5175.
Your voice is essential in helping us uncover the truth about how these policy changes are affecting communities nationwide. Together, we can shine a light on the realities of America’s evolving safety net and work towards a more informed and equitable future.
