Families facing food insecurity can now receive more support at local farmers’ markets across New York, thanks to an emergency expansion of the FreshConnect program.
Through the FreshConnect Emergency Response Program, eligible New Yorkers can receive $20 in FreshConnect Checks each week — no match or purchase required — to spend on fresh foods like produce, meats, dairy, baked goods, and more. The checks are available at participating farmers’ markets while supplies last, and the effort runs through the end of December.
The program, managed by the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets, typically matches SNAP purchases dollar-for-dollar. But this special expansion provides direct food assistance, without needing a qualifying SNAP transaction. It’s part of a $2 million emergency initiative funded in response to cuts in federal food aid.
Organizers say the benefits offer a win-win: they help food-insecure residents get healthy groceries, while also boosting local farms and markets during the busy holiday season.
New Yorkers can find a full list of participating markets at agriculture.ny.gov/market-schedule-freshconnect-emergency-response-program, or inquire at their local market’s information table. High demand is expected, and officials urge patience as supplies are limited.
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