Posted on April 10, 2026

By David Winzelberg

Read on LIBN

In response to new federal work requirements for SNAP recipients, the Health & Welfare Council of Long Island (HWCLI) has launched a new employment platform. 

The platform, LongIslandJobs.org, was developed through a partnership with Central Islip-based NAKA Tech, creating a centralized resource to help people meet new requirements for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) that went into effect on March 1. 

HWCLI President and CEO Vanessa Baird-Streeter told LIBN that about 180,000 Long Islanders currently receive SNAP benefits and thousands of those recipients are impacted by the new work requirements, including many people between the ages of 55 and 64, those between 18 and 24 aging out of foster care, veterans and the homeless. 

As a centralized employment platform, LongIslandJobs.org is designed to connect job seekers with employment, and volunteer opportunities, provide access to training and workforce development pathways, link users to supportive services that reduce barriers to employment and help SNAP recipients meet new work requirements and maintain benefits, according to the statement. 

In addition to finding employment, LongIslandJobs.org also assists Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWD) recipients of SNAP with the required documentation needed to continue to qualify for the program, including medical statements, education and training records, volunteer documentation, job search activity and more. 

“LongIslandJobs.org is a timely, region‑wide response to a real and immediate need, led by the Health & Welfare Council of Long Island (HWCLI). As new SNAP work requirements take effect, thousands of Long Islanders are facing increased pressure to secure employment while navigating complex systems with limited support,” Baird-Streeter said in a written statement. “This platform brings employers, workforce pathways, and supportive services together in one accessible place—helping residents remain eligible for benefits while moving toward long‑term economic stability.” 

In its first phase, LongIslandJobs.org is open to nonprofit, healthcare, and human services organizations seeking staff. Later this year, the platform’s second phase will expand to include private sector employers to offer a broader range of job openings. There is currently no charge for employers to list jobs. 

NAKA Tech, led by its founder Anil Jagtiani, is a minority-owned IT solutions provider delivering cybersecurity, managed services, consulting, staffing, and cloud solutions to a wide variety of industries. The company, which actively invests in communities through its “NAKA for Good” program, created the LongIslandJobs.org platform in coordination with HWCLI. 

“At NAKA, we believe business should be a force for good. That belief is what led to the creation of LongIslandJobs.org. Built in collaboration with our nonprofit partner, HWCLI to serve those who need opportunity the most,” Jagtiani said in the statement. “This platform was designed for veterans, individuals with disabilities, and those facing real challenges in today’s job market, giving them not just access to jobs, but the tools and support to prepare, grow, and succeed.” 

Baird-Streeter said her organization is grateful for NAKA Tech’s willingness to partner with HWCLI to bring the platform to life. “This effort truly highlights the power of cross‑sector collaboration and NAKA’s commitment to supporting Long Island’s communities,” she said. 

Tags: HWCLI, Health & Welfare Council of Long Island, employment, Long Island, SNAP recipients, federal work requirements, LongIslandJobs.org, NAKA Tech