U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand visited food-access organizations in Buffalo and Troy on Monday as part of a statewide tour focused on grocery and household costs.
Gillibrand stopped at FeedMore WNY in Buffalo and Bargain Grocery in Troy. She cited a recent Consumer Price Index report showing 12-month inflation at 4.2%, with fruit and vegetable prices up 6.1% and nonalcoholic beverages up 5.8%.
FeedMore WNY Vice President Collin Bishop said high grocery prices and changes to SNAP have increased demand on emergency food programs that are already at or beyond capacity.
Gillibrand blamed federal tariffs and military spending for higher costs and called for more focus on household expenses. The release did not announce a new bill or funding program.
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