The Arc of Bismarck

10/30/2025

10/30/2025

SNAP Benefits at Risk for North Dakotans with Disabilities
The ongoing government shutdown means SNAP (food stamp) benefits may stop on November 1, leaving thousands of North Dakotans — including people with disabilities — without the food support they depend on.

For many, SNAP is essential for meeting basic needs. People with disabilities often are on fixed incomes and may receive only limited support services each week. Some lack nearby family or natural supports, and many are unfamiliar with how to access food banks or community resources if benefits are delayed.

Individuals who receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are not eligible for additional cash funds to be received by a family member to buy food, as this would be recorded as income and would only reduce their future SSI payments.

SSI provides basic income support for essentials such as housing, utilities, and transportation. The average SSI payment in North Dakota is $661.12 for those with a disability. (SSI Monthly Statistics, April 2025)

It’s crucial to understand that SNAP plays a significant role in bridging the financial gap for many individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities who are working. Often in part-time or low-wage positions, their earnings are not enough to meet basic needs. SNAP helps fill this gap, providing essential support. Among all SNAP participants nationwide, about 10% are non-elderly individuals with a disability, and four out of five households include a child, senior, or person with a disability. In North Dakota, 45,167 people across 22,759 households received SNAP in FY2022, with nearly 6,000 adults under 60 identified as having disabilities. (USDA Food and Nutrition Service, USDA SNAP State Fact Sheet)

It is important to recognize that food assistance programs support stability, health, and independence. Many individuals with disabilities contribute to their communities but continue to face financial barriers due to limited work hours, lower wages, and systemic obstacles to full employment.

The Arc of North Dakota urgently calls on Congress to act now. It's crucial to protect government operations and protect access to SNAP. Everyone, regardless of their circumstances, deserves food security, independence, and dignity.

09/05/2025

Tomorrow is an opportunity for the individuals that don't get to go fishing (due to a disability) to catch some fish. If you know of anyone that would enjoy this event please bring them to the hatchery between 9:00-11:00. The event closes at noon and is catch and release. No Admission

07/31/2025

This letter to the editor in the Bismarck Tribune recognizes our past board president, Carl Young, and their advocacy for individuals impacted by Medicaid cuts. We are grateful for their commitment to our community. Read the full letter here:

President Trump's budget proposal eliminates funding for key programs under the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act (DD Act). This includes programs that support access to inclusive education,

07/07/2025

🚨 The Arc of North Dakota Speaks Out Against Deep Medicaid & SNAP Cuts 🚨

This week, a new federal budget was signed into law—and it’s devastating for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and their families.

This isn’t just policy. It’s personal. 💔

🛑 Nearly $1 trillion slashed from Medicaid
🛑 $186 billion cut from SNAP
🛑 New work requirements and red tape
🛑 Vouchers that sideline students with disabilities
🛑 Zero civil rights protections for kids in private schools

In North Dakota alone:

Over 102,800 people rely on Medicaid.

Nearly 48,700 count on SNAP to put food on the table

Many live in rural areas and already face barriers to care.

These cuts threaten not just services, but independence, inclusion, and dignity. Families will be forced to choose between caregiving and their jobs… between food and medication… between staying at home or being institutionalized.

We’re especially concerned about the hidden consequences, like:
📉 Fewer direct support professionals
📉 Delays in services
📉 Increased strain on already stretched families
📉 The risk of institutional care for those without adequate home supports

💬 “Behind every statistic is a person—a child learning to speak, a parent relying on home care, a rural neighbor who can only reach a specialist thanks to Medicaid-funded transportation.”

We will not let these cuts go unnoticed. We will not stay quiet.

📢 Read our full statement and learn what’s at stake:
👉 https://thearcofbismarck.org/federal-budget-cuts-to-medicaid-and-snap-pose-serious-risks-to-north-dakotans-with-disabilities/

📣 Please share and stand with us. Our community deserves better.

07/03/2025

🛑 Massive federal cuts to Medicaid, SNAP, and public education are now law, and people with disabilities will pay the price.

This isn’t just policy—it’s personal. It means lost care, greater barriers, and fewer supports for the people who need them most.

As we head into Independence Day, we’re reminded that true freedom means access to healthcare, education, and community living for all.

The Arc of North Dakota will not stay silent. We’re speaking out—and we’ll share our full response on Monday.

07/01/2025

Congress is considering deep cuts to Medicaid, and the impact on people with disabilities could be devastating. These services are lifelines that support health, independence, and dignity.

📢 It’s time to act.
Tell your elected officials: Protect Our Rights. Protect Medicaid.

🖱️ Take 1 minute to send your message now:
👉 https://action.thearc.org/hMKcUkd

06/06/2025

🧡 We're Looking for Leaders Who Care! 🧡

Are you passionate about advocating for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities? Do you wish to make a genuine difference in your community?

The Arc of Bismarck is currently seeking new board members who are ready to lead with compassion, integrity, and purpose. As a member of the board, you'll help shape the direction of our organization and ensure that the voices of people with disabilities are heard and respected.

If you're interested in joining a mission-driven team, we’d love to hear from you!

📄 Download the application here:
https://thearcofbismarck.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2021/09/Blank-Board-Application.pdf

06/04/2025

Great Program!

05/23/2025

As executive director of The Arc of North Dakota, I’ve witnessed firsthand how essential Medicaid-funded services empower individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live independently and engage fully in their communities. But today, that independence is under serious threat. ...

05/22/2025

The House of Representatives passed a budget reconciliation bill that slashes Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), programs that millions of people with disabilities rely on to survive.

05/01/2025

A message sent from Minot State University leadership to employees indicated there was nothing they could do financially, as the decisions and federal funding sources are out of their control.