Governor Kathy Hochul has announced over $11 million in emergency food relief funding for nearly 100 community-based organizations across New York, aiming to combat hunger at a time when millions of families face uncertainty about their federal SNAP benefits.
The funding includes more than $5 million in Local Emergency Food Relief Equipment grants for soup kitchens, food pantries, and shelters — and an additional $6 million to support New York’s partnership with Feeding New York State and the state’s 10 regional food banks.
“While the Trump administration continues to starve federal food assistance programs of funding, New York State is investing directly in local organizations that feed New Yorkers who are struggling,” Hochul said. “We are making sure that children, families, and vulnerable individuals aren’t left behind.”
The move comes amid growing concern that nearly 3 million New Yorkers could lose access to SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits in November if federal contingency funds aren’t released. Hochul has called on the USDA to act immediately, warning of a potential hunger crisis.
Supporting food banks, pantries, and rural programs
The newly announced grants will help purchase critical equipment like refrigerated trucks, walk-in freezers, generators, and insulated food containers — all aimed at expanding storage and improving the ability to transport and distribute food.
In the Finger Lakes, for example:
- House of Mercy in Rochester will receive over $50,000 for a cargo van and insulated containers.
- Irondequoit Community Cupboard will receive nearly $23,000 for a backup generator to keep food safe during power outages.
Projects across the state reflect similar needs, from walk-in coolers in New York City to refrigerated vans in the North Country.
Feeding New York State Interim Executive Director Kathleen Stress praised the state’s continued commitment: “Since launching this initiative in 2022, we’ve recovered 63 million pounds of edible food. This support lets us do even more.”
A wider push to fight hunger
The funding also ties into the state’s broader food access initiatives, including:
- The Food Donation and Food Scraps Recycling Law, which reduces food waste and redirects excess food to those in need.
- Programs like Nourish New York, Farm-to-School, and FreshConnect, which support local agriculture while boosting access to fresh food.
- A record-setting 63 million pounds of food recovered this year alone through expanded donation programs.
DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton said the state is stepping up where federal support is falling short. “These investments will provide healthy, quality food to hungry New Yorkers while also reducing waste,” she said.
With federal funding still in limbo, Hochul’s latest move sends a strong message: “New York won’t wait while Washington fails to act.”
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