Assemblymember Jessica González-Rojas recently revealed a 5-point plan to tackle food insecurity in New York. During her visit to FoodTown Supermarket in Jackson Heights, she demonstrated the struggles many families face by trying to create a basic grocery basket with just $24, the current minimum SNAP benefit.
González-Rojas underscored the harsh reality for thousands of families in Queens, saying, “In 2026, $24 can’t even buy a bag of groceries.” This situation highlights the growing gap between food prices and the assistance many low-income families, seniors, and immigrants rely on.
Food insecurity is a pressing issue in areas like Jackson Heights, Corona, and East Elmhurst, where many residents work in low-paying jobs. With rising prices and significant inflation, local food pantries are seeing a surge in demand. Many community organizations are now struggling to meet this growing need.
A recent poll by No Kid Hungry revealed that 52% of New York City residents have gone into debt over the past year just to buy food for their families. This statistic paints a clear picture of the crisis many are experiencing.
To address this challenge, González-Rojas’s plan includes:
- Increase SNAP Benefits: Proposes raising the minimum benefit from $24 to $100 per month to better reflect current food costs.
- Improve Access: Aims to remove barriers for immigrant families, allowing broader access to food assistance programs.
- Support Local Networks: Advocates for state support of food pantries and community kitchens that serve as vital resources for families.
- Invest in Healthy Food Access: Supports grocery stores and farmers’ markets in areas lacking affordable fresh food options.
- Protect SNAP Benefits: Seeks to modernize SNAP cards to prevent theft and create a fund to help families who fall victim to skimming.
González-Rojas emphasized that her demonstration in the supermarket was meant to expose the difficult choices families must make every month. “This is why I’m running for state senate,” she said. “Families in Queens need leaders who will fight for real solutions to the cost-of-living crisis.”
Her campaign also focuses on housing affordability, healthcare access, and economic opportunities. “Food is a basic human right,” she stated, insisting that in one of the wealthiest states, no one should go hungry.
For ongoing updates on food insecurity and assistance initiatives, check out relevant resources like the New York Senate’s SNAP bill and the universal free school meals proposal to see how local leaders are tackling these issues.
