By Triada Stampas, 

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As budget and deficit reduction negotiations continue in Washington, the future of critical safety-net programs like food stamps (SNAP) and emergency food (TEFAP) remains uncertain — recent proposals threaten deep cuts.

Just a few weeks ago, a few of our community-based member organizations kicked off a paper plate campaign to help share the voices and the stories of the 1.4 million New York City residents who rely on food pantries and soup kitchens with our members of Congress. Their messages, written on paper plates, are a powerful reminder of the struggles so many New Yorkers face just to keep food on the table.

The Food Bank has sent 1,000 paper plates to Washington so far, and the campaign is still going! Paper plates collected between now and the end of October will be hand-delivered to Congress Members’ offices in early November. Food Bank member organizations that participate will receive a supply of paper plates and an easy-to-follow guide for engaging clients, volunteers, staff and board members in the campaign.

If you are at a Food Bank member or partner organization and would like to join the campaign, please contact Community Outreach Manager Roxanne Henry.