Apr 25, 2024, New York: Food Bank For New York City is proud to stand alongside our coalition partners to thank advocates and legislators from across New York for their support in safeguarding food security within the State budget.
The final budget agreement includes essential investment in food assistance at food pantries and soup kitchens, protects services that help New Yorkers access SNAP, and continues to support free school meals for many students across our state. These accomplishments are a testament to what can be done when New Yorkers come together and raise our voices and include:
- $57.8M for the Hunger Prevention and Nutrition Assistance Program (HPNAP), $1.25M above last fiscal year level
- $54.3M for Nourish New York, $4.25M above last fiscal year level
- $5.6M for the Nutrition Outreach and Education Program (NOEP), $100K above last fiscal year level
We extend our deepest appreciation to Governor Hochul, Leader Stuart Cousins, Speaker Heastie with special thanks to our New York City legislative champions particularly Assembly Member Catalina Cruz, for spearheading her colleagues’ support for both the Hunger Prevention and Nutrition Assistance Program (HPNAP) and Nourish New York, which collectively aid over 600 food assistance programs and provide millions of meals annually to vulnerable New Yorkers. Additionally, we commend Senator Roxanne Persaud and Assembly Member Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas for their tireless efforts in ensuring that vital benefits such as SNAP reach those who need them most while advocating for NY’s Nutrition Assistance and Outreach Program (NOEP).
We have reinforced the imperative that New York State must maintain its position as a strong leader in implementing policies that effectively tackle poverty and confront food insecurity head-on. Today, we celebrate these victories, while recognizing the ongoing work that lies ahead. Food Bank For New York City remains committed to working with our government partners to protect our neighbors from hunger and empower them towards a more secure food future.
About Food Bank For New York City
Driven by our mission to empower every New Yorker to achieve food security for good, we harness the collective power of our network of food providers, partners, and volunteers to activate the right resources, supports, and expertise across the five boroughs. Our work with more than 800 soup kitchens, food pantries, and campus partners provides immediate and reliable access to food and nutrition education, while our economic empowerment programs give people the tools and know-how to improve their financial wellness. Community by community, we work together to make progress on a more hopeful, dignified, and equitable future for all.