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John Berry Calls for Protection of Medicaid and SNAP

In an urgent call to action, John Berry, the National President of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, has appealed to Congress regarding the potential impacts of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. As deliberations continue, concerns have arisen that this bill threatens to significantly undermine crucial social safety nets such as Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

Berry expressed deep disquiet that certain lawmakers view the proposed legislation as a means to impose severe cuts rather than a mechanism to support the vulnerable. “While the Senate Parliamentarian has ruled against the inclusion of provisions that would directly slash Medicaid and SNAP, the bill—as it currently stands—presents a grave danger to the welfare of millions,” he cautioned.

The initial proposals outlined in the bill would cut Medicaid funding by a staggering $793 billion over the next decade. According to projections from the Congressional Budget Office, such reductions could result in 10.3 million individuals losing access to this vital health coverage. Similarly, SNAP, which assists families in affording necessary food provisions, could see nearly $300 billion in cuts over the next ten years, leading to approximately 7 million individuals facing reduced benefits or total deprivation of assistance.

Berry emphasized the ramifications these cuts would have, particularly on children, adults, and individuals with disabilities who rely on these essential programs for their well-being. He painted a stark picture of a society where the gap between the affluent and the impoverished continues to widen, saying, “The legislation, if passed in its current form, could leave millions of children unfed and drastically affect health care access for countless others.”

The Society of St. Vincent de Paul, which holds a longstanding tradition of aiding the needy, stands firmly against these proposed reductions. Berry articulated that their mission, informed by Catholic teachings, urges advocates and lawmakers alike to reflect on the moral implications of prioritizing fiscal pressures over the welfare of society's most vulnerable members.

“Why must the poor be the ones to shoulder the burden of economic challenges?” Berry asked critically. “As an organization that serves communities across the nation, we have witnessed firsthand the dire consequences of neglecting the needs of the disadvantaged. Our Vincentian volunteers are an embodiment of dedication, consistently striving to provide assistance through food pantries, thrift stores, and charitable pharmacies.”

In urging legislators to reevaluate the cuts, Berry's call is not only for support of the poor but also a plea for compassion and justice. “It is time to be advocates for those who feel forgotten and marginalized,” he asserted, calling upon Congress to recognize the importance of empathy in policymaking.

Citing Pope Leo XIV's recent statements, Berry underscored the importance of helping the poor not merely as an act of charity but as an imperative of justice. “Let us then resolve to work towards a society that uplifts every individual, ensuring that no one is left to suffer unduly. In one of the wealthiest nations in the world, we must find value in uplifting those who are most in need.”

Moving forward, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, through its extensive network and community outreach efforts, remains committed to advocating for the protection of critical social programs. Berry concluded with a resounding message for Congress: “We must prioritize the voices of those who suffer and actively work to dismantle the systems perpetuating poverty.”

As discussions on the proposed legislation unfold, the call to safeguard Medicaid and SNAP remains a central focus for advocacy groups across the nation, emphasizing the need for a more just societal framework that benefits all.