ROCHESTER, N.Y. — In response to the ongoing federal government shutdown, nearly $550,000 will be allocated to food pantries at SUNY community colleges. Gov. Kathy Hochul announced this emergency assistance to help restock pantries and support students in need.
This funding is part of a broader effort to address food insecurity. Other programs, like the Hunger Prevention and Nutrition Assistance Program and Nourish NY, will also receive financial support.
Additionally, Hochul declared $41 million in state funds to aid food banks, pantries, and soup kitchens. On October 30, she set aside $65 million and mobilized the Empire State Service Corps to assist local food banks.
This assistance comes during a challenging period. The government shutdown has left more than 135,000 people in the Rochester area uncertain about their SNAP benefits since November 1. Without these benefits, many face serious challenges in accessing enough food.
In the face of such hard times, local communities are stepping up. For those looking for food assistance, News10NBC offers a list of food pantries across the region.
Historically, food assistance programs have evolved in response to crises. For example, during the 2008 financial crisis, similar measures were put in place to help struggling families. Now, as we see increasing food prices and economic uncertainties, the importance of these programs has never been clearer.
Experts warn that with inflation rates affecting grocery bills, many households may soon find themselves in need of support. According to a recent USDA report, food prices are expected to rise another 3% this year.
Communities across the nation are feeling the impact, and collective efforts like these show how crucial local support can be.
