AUSTIN, July 16, 2025 - Sweeping changes to Medicaid and Medicare, introduced through the 2025 "One Big Beautiful Bill" (OBBB), are poised to dramatically reshape health care access and affordability for millions of Americans. Chive Charities, a nonprofit committed to filling the gaps where insurance and others fall short for Veterans, first responders, rare medical individuals and their families, is readying for an influx of applicants as the impact of the cuts takes hold.
“With the recent passage of new legislation, we’re anticipating a sharp rise in applications—not just from those with insurance, but now also from those without any coverage at all,” said Director of Programs Cory Hall-Martin. “Since March alone, we’ve already seen a notable increase.”
While lawmakers pitched these reforms as a path to efficiency and rural investment, the reality for patients, families, and providers looks far more uncertain—especially for the nation’s most vulnerable.
What Is in the "Big Beautiful Bill"?
Passed in July 2025, it is projected that nearly $1 trillion in cuts to Medicaid will occur over the next 10 years. Additionally, there will be a reduction to funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and other social support programs.
Who Will Be Affected?
Up to 10.9 million Americans are expected to lose Medicaid coverage by 2034, according to Congressional Budget Office projections. Rural areas will be hit especially hard, with estimates showing 1.8 million rural residents losing coverage.
It is anticipated that children, seniors and people with disabilities will be impacted the most, the communities that Chive Charities supports. Each quarter, approximately 170 applications are reviewed, and that number is likely to increase as coverage is slashed to the most vulnerable.
“Our average monthly application volume has grown from 40 to over 50”, said Hall-Martin. “Many people with urgent medical needs are being turned away.”
Real Stories, Real Consequences
These cuts impact real lives. When insurance disappears, people skip doctor visits, delay medications and deteriorate faster.
Since 2012, Chive Charities has been committed to championing the ones who need it most, providing nearly $23 million in aid to over 700 recipients for life-changing grants and critical aid.
Behind every number is a family, a Veteran, a first responder, or a person with a disability wondering how they’ll afford lifesaving care. For many, the changes from the "big beautiful bill" don’t just mean budget numbers on a page—they mean tougher choices, reduced access, and, for some, lives on the line.
About Chive Charities
Headquartered in Austin, Chive Charities is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to providing life-changing and life-giving support to Veterans, military families, first responders and those with a rare medical diagnosis.
To date, Chive Charities has helped over 700 causes totaling nearly $23 million in aid, including medical and therapy equipment, mental and physical therapy sessions, wheelchair-accessible vans, service dogs and much more, filling the gaps where insurance and other resources cannot. Learn more about Chive Charities at ChiveCharities.org or follow us on Instagram, Facebook and X.
For Media Inquiries
Megan Taylor | 512-639-4366 | megan.taylor@chivecharities.org
