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Food Bank Media Relations
212.566.7894
The FY19 City budget agreed to by Mayor Bill de Blasio and the New York City Council included an $8.7 million baseline increase to the Emergency Food Assistance Program (EFAP), the first such increase since 2012. In response, Food Bank For New York City President & CEO Margarette Purvis released the following statement:
“This budget is a major win for New Yorkers in need and soup kitchens and pantries hard at work in their service. From increasing funding for food pantries and soup kitchens to creating the transformative ‘Fair Fares’ program, it’s clear that Mayor de Blasio, Speaker Johnson and Councilman Dromm have committed to strengthening communities across the five boroughs.
“In particular, we’re thrilled to see an $8.7 million baseline increase to the Emergency Food Assistance Program (EFAP)—an increase our citywide network has requested for many years. EFAP is important to the 1.4 million New Yorkers we serve, providing nutritious food year-round during moments of need. We’re so grateful for the sustained advocacy of Council Members Barry Grodenchik and Stephen Levin, whose leadership and tenacity over several years was instrumental in securing this increased funding.”
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About Food Bank For New York City:
Food Bank For New York City has been the city’s major hunger-relief organization working to end hunger throughout the five boroughs for 35 years. Nearly one in five New Yorkers relies on Food Bank for food and other resources. Food Bank takes a strategic, multifaceted approach that provides meals and builds capacity in the neediest communities, while raising awareness and engagement among all New Yorkers. Through its network of more than 1,000 charities and schools citywide, Food Bank provides food for more than 62.5 million free meals for New Yorkers in need. Food Bank For New York City’s income support services, including food stamps (also known as SNAP) and free tax assistance for the working poor, put more than $150 million each year into the pockets of New Yorkers, helping them to afford food and achieve greater dignity and independence. In addition, Food Bank’s nutrition education programs and services empower more than 50,000 children, teens and adults to sustain a healthy diet on a low budget. To learn more about how you can help, please visit foodbanknyc.org. Follow us on Facebook (FoodBank4NYC), Twitter (@FoodBank4NYC) and Instagram (FoodBank4NYC).