As the federal government shutdown drags on, millions of Americans face food insecurity. In New York, 3 million people risk going hungry after SNAP food assistance was delayed and partially funded.
The New York Health Foundation (NYHealth) is stepping in with a $1 million emergency effort, providing $50 preloaded EBT cards to the neediest families.
“We saw this coming,” said Dr. David Sandman, President and CEO of NYHealth. “This is the first time SNAP benefits have ever been in peril. Families are stressed, not knowing where their next meal will come from.”
SNAP, the nation’s most powerful anti-hunger tool, supports 42 million Americans. With benefits only partly funded for November, families face tough choices between food, rent, and utilities.
“Food prices are at record highs, and more New Yorkers are food insecure than during the pandemic,” Sandman said. “This is the worst possible time to cut off assistance.”
NYHealth’s cash assistance program allows families to shop for food with dignity and autonomy, while also supporting local stores and the food economy.
Food banks and pantries are overwhelmed. The state has fast-tracked $100 million to help, but supply chain and staffing challenges remain.
“Every donation counts,” Sandman said. “Support local food pantries and provide healthy foods like oatmeal, tuna in water, and vegetables. Together, we can help families get through this crisis.”
For more information, visit nyhealthfoundation.org
or see local food pantry listings at wjffradio.org
Image Credit: Freepik
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