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(Undated) -- Iowans getting federal funds to help them buy groceries during tough times are getting less money. The amount of SNAP benefit funds Iowans get is reduced starting Friday. The rates were increased by up to $250 a month during the COVID pandemic. Governor Reynolds ending the state's emergency COVID proclamation in February meant the federal boost for households needing help with grocery costs is no longer coming in. The Department of Human Services reports almost 150,000 Iowa homes have requested SNAP benefits this year. The average amount a family of two would get in 2019 was $212 a month.