Long Island Launches Free Job Hub for SNAP Recipients

Thousands of Long Islanders now have a powerful new tool to find work and build their futures, all through one free website launched this week.

LongIslandJobs.org officially opened to the public Friday, bringing together job listings, training programs, and career support services in a single platform. The Health & Welfare Council of Long Island created the site with NAKA Tech to help residents navigate new federal work requirements tied to food assistance that took effect March 1.

The timing couldn't be more critical. New rules for able-bodied adults without dependents now require work participation to maintain SNAP benefits, affecting thousands across Nassau and Suffolk counties. Rather than leaving people to navigate this change alone, community leaders built a solution.

"This platform brings employers, workforce pathways and supportive services together in one accessible place," said Vanessa Baird-Streeter, president and CEO of the Health & Welfare Council. "It helps residents remain eligible for benefits while moving toward long-term economic stability."

The website does more than list jobs. Users can access volunteer opportunities, find workforce training programs, get job search assistance, and receive benefits counseling. The platform also helps SNAP recipients document their compliance with new requirements, removing a major stress point.

After launching quietly for nonprofits and healthcare organizations to build up listings, the platform now welcomes private employers at no cost. Companies can post positions, connect directly with local job seekers, and link to their existing hiring systems.

The Ripple Effect

What started as a response to policy changes is becoming something bigger for Long Island's entire workforce ecosystem. Veterans, individuals with disabilities, and those facing barriers to employment now have dedicated support designed specifically for their needs.

"It gives them not just access to jobs, but the tools and support to prepare, grow and succeed," said Anil Jagtiani, CEO of NAKA Tech. United Way of Long Island and Island Harvest Food Bank joined the effort, recognizing that helping people find sustainable work strengthens entire communities.

The collaboration shows what's possible when organizations coordinate instead of compete. Rather than forcing job seekers to navigate dozens of separate websites and programs, one hub now connects them to everything they need.

When challenges force communities to choose between compassion and compliance, the best solutions deliver both.