The Greater Chicago Food Depository announced that it has joined forces with the national young adult advocacy network, Young Invincibles, to champion a state-level bill in Illinois aimed at alleviating college student hunger. The bill expands and streamlines eligibility for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits in Illinois, ensuring that more students at public colleges and universities have access to the nutrition they need to thrive. Sponsored by State Senator Graciela Guzmán (20th District) and State Representative Barbara Hernandez (50th District), SB1298 and HB2750 aim to increase SNAP participation among college students, particularly those at community colleges, parenting students and students of color disproportionately affected by food insecurity. Nearly two thirds (67 percent) of students in the U.S. who are eligible for SNAP are not receiving benefits, according to the U.S. Government Accountability Office. The bill will streamline and expand eligibility for SNAP benefits, allowing all students at public colleges and universities in Illinois to benefit from the program provided they meet income and other eligibility requirements. Increasing SNAP participation would bring an estimated $150 million in additional federal benefit dollars to Illinois residents, generating an additional $225 million in economic activity in the State of Illinois.