Governor Abigail Spanberger announced the creation of the Virginia United Coalition, bringing together 32 organizations to help residents navigate healthcare and food assistance cuts imposed by federal legislation.
More than 300,000 Virginians covered by Medicaid are at risk of losing coverage. SNAP participation has declined by over 150,000 people since June 2025. The federal law cuts Medicaid by $1 trillion nationally, with Virginia projected to lose $1.8 to $2.6 billion annually beginning in 2028.
The coalition includes organizations in healthcare, food access, faith communities, workforce development, education, and philanthropy. Members have committed to helping eligible Virginians understand new requirements, maintain benefits, and connect with critical resources.
Specific partner activities include Goodwill of Central and Coastal Virginia establishing a referral process for people affected by new work requirements, the Virginia Association of Free and Charitable Clinics launching targeted digital outreach to Medicaid recipients, and UnitedHealthcare coordinating communications to members about eligibility changes.
Governor Spanberger signed Executive Order 20 this summer directing state agencies to protect healthcare coverage and food assistance. The state's 2026-2028 budget includes over $500 million in healthcare investments, including $150 million for a marketplace premium assistance program, $225 million for a Federal Contingency Fund, and $15 million for health centers and outreach workers.