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PROGRAM CHANGES Summarize changes for the upcoming Federal fiscal year (FY) from the prior FY. Significant changes may include new initiatives, changes in funding or funding sources, policy changes, or significant changes to the number of partners or participants. Significant changes could include those made as a result of management evaluation findings or participation in program improvement initiatives, such as SNAP to Skills. It is not necessary to include changes made as a result of new Federal rulemaking. Expansion of SNAP E&T Partnerships and Program Enhancements in Kentucky: At the close of Federal Fiscal Year (FFY) 2025, Kentucky expanded its third-party partnership network by incorporating the Eastern Kentucky Concentrated Employment Programs (EKCEP). This collaboration will continue into FFY 2026, strengthening workforce development services across the state. For FFY 2026, Kentucky has established three new partnerships with IFOSTER, Skilled US, and the Northern Kentucky Area Development District (NKADD). These partners will enhance service delivery, particularly for youth up to age 24, and support the implementation of new program components. Notably, IFOSTER will offer Subsidized Work-Based Learning Internships further enriching experiential learning opportunities for participants upon approval. Additionally, the Center for Employment Opportunities (CEO), an existing partner, will expand its service offerings to include Subsidized Work-Based Learning Transitional Jobs, providing critical work experience for individuals reentering the workforce. Process Improvement and Strategic Support Initiatives: In alignment with the Cabinet’s broader Quality Initiative, Kentucky has engaged Ernst & Young as a consulting partner to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of public assistance processes. This initiative aims to enhance service delivery for individuals, families, staff, and partner organizations. The project, which is not funded through SNAP Employment & Training (E&T) resources, is scheduled for completion by December 2025. Its findings will inform evidence-based improvements in SNAP E&T programming statewide. To support this effort, the Commissioner’s Office has designated an Executive Advisor and an interim Program Specialist to assist the E&T team. These roles provide strategic guidance and operational support across all SNAP-related activities, ensuring alignment with program goals and continuous improvement efforts. Kentucky is adding a third person to the E&T team to assist with the expansion and monitoring. Highlight any changes from above that the State agency is making to the E&T program based on the prior year’s performance, for instance changes made as a result of E&T outcome and participation data. Program Enhancements and Strategic Changes Based on Prior Year Performance: Kentucky is implementing several strategic changes to its SNAP Employment & Training (E&T) program in FFY 2026, informed by data and lessons learned from prior year participation and outcome trends. 1. Expansion of Third-Party Partnerships Based on Participation Needs In response to identified service gaps and to increase engagement among underserved populations - particularly youth - Kentucky has added three new E&T providers: IFOSTER, Skilled US, and NKADD. These partnerships were selected to address specific barriers identified through FFY 2025 participation data, which indicated a need for expanded services for individuals up to age 24 and to improve access to work- based learning opportunities in specific regions. 1/29/26, 8:20 AM State Plan KY FY26 - Original Submission https://dam-fns.usda.gov/sites/default/files/microsite/snapet-kyfy26stateplan//index.html 4/142