Cross-Sector Collaboration Delivers Workforce Pathways for SNAP-Eligible Long Islanders

Developed by the Health and Welfare Council of Long Island (HWCLI) in partnership with NAKA Tech, LongIslandJobs.org offers a timely, sustainable response to evolving federal work requirements

Huntington Station, NY — The Health & Welfare Council of Long Island (HWCLI) today announced the public launch of its newly created platform, LongIslandJobs.org.

Developed through a cross-sector partnership with NAKA Tech, this platform was created in direct response to new federal SNAP work requirements for Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs), which went into effect on March 1, 2026. The impetus for the platform was to create a centralized resource to support individuals in meeting new work requirements, while streamlining access to resources and required documentation.

Changes in SNAP work requirements are expected to impact thousands of Long Islanders, underscoring the urgency of providing accessible employment, training, and supportive services.

“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,” stated Vanessa Baird-Streeter, President and CEO of Health & Welfare Council of Long Island. “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. We are deeply grateful to NAKA Tech for their willingness to partner with HWCLI to bring this platform to life. This effort truly highlights the power of cross‑sector collaboration and NAKA’s commitment to supporting Long Island’s communities.”

A Coordinated Regional Response

LongIslandJobs.org serves as a centralized hub to strengthen workforce coordination across Long Island. The platform 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
• Help SNAP recipients meet new work requirements and maintain benefits

By bringing these resources together in one user-friendly place, the platform delivers a streamlined, high-impact solution for both job seekers and employers.

Built for Long Island, Powered by Partnership

To bring this vision to life, HWCLI partnered with NAKA Tech, a Long Island-based IT solutions provider committed to supporting the region’s nonprofit ecosystem through innovation and social responsibility.

“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,” said Anil Jagtiani, CEO of Naka Tech. “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.”

With program leadership from HWCLI and technological investment from NAKA Technologies, the platform combines deep regional expertise with cutting-edge infrastructure to ensure it is responsive, reliable, and scalable.

Supporting Employers and Strengthening the Workforce

LongIslandJobs.org was initially launched in a pre-release phase exclusively for nonprofit, healthcare, and human services organizations, ensuring that mission-driven employers serving Long Island’s most vulnerable communities were prioritized in building the platform’s foundation.

“LongIslandJobs.org offers a unified, streamlined platform where SNAP residents can access the workforce programs and supportive services they need—all in one place—to move toward lasting self-sufficiency,” said Theresa Regnante, President and CEO of United Way of Long Island.”

“Island Harvest Food Bank is proud to partner with the Health & Welfare Council of Long Island to support LongIslandJobs.org,” said Randi Shubin Dresner, President & CEO. “This resource will be invaluable for Long Islanders seeking meaningful employment that benefits their communities. We are especially pleased that support services include job search assistance and benefits counseling for those affected by the new work requirements for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). We look forward to working together to make a positive impact in our community.”

As the platform moves forward in its full public launch, HWCLI is now expanding access to include private sector employers, creating new opportunities for cross-sector engagement and a broader range of job openings for Long Island residents. Participation is free for all employers.

By registering and posting open positions, employers can:

• Connect directly with local, motivated job seekers
• Link job postings to their existing careers pages without duplicating systems
• Contribute to a coordinated regional workforce solution

A Commitment to Long Island’s Future

At its core, LongIslandJobs.org reflects HWCLI’s commitment to strengthening Long Island’s workforce by convening agencies, connecting critical resources, and building a more coordinated regional response to employment needs. The platform is designed to ensure that every Long Islander has equitable access to the services, supports, and opportunities necessary to secure employment, achieve economic stability, and participate fully as contributing members of the regional workforce.

About the Health & Welfare Council of Long Island:

The Health & Welfare Council of Long Island (HWCLI) is a nonprofit umbrella organization representing health and human service providers across Nassau and Suffolk Counties. HWCLI works to improve the quality of life for Long Islanders through advocacy, direct service programs, coalition-building, and system-wide coordination. For more information on services provided by Health & Welfare Council of Long Island, visit www.hwcli.com, email [email protected], or call 516-483-1110. Connect with us on Facebook, LinkedIn, X or Instagram.

About NAKA Tech:

NAKA is a minority-owned IT solutions provider headquartered in Central Islip, NY, delivering cybersecurity, managed services, consulting, staffing, and cloud solutions to organizations worldwide. Through a full lifecycle approach and deep strategic partnerships, NAKA empowers clients with innovative, next-generation technologies that drive performance, resilience, and growth. Beyond technology, NAKA is committed to making a meaningful impact. Through its “NAKA For Good” initiative, the company actively invests in communities, giving back and addressing real-world challenges with purpose and integrity. Learn more at www.nakatech.com.