Along the busy Sunrise Highway in Freeport, you’ll find a vital resource for many struggling families: the Long Island Cares pantry. Each month, this pantry helps over 1,000 families, according to Reyna Felix, a senior program coordinator at the site. However, recent times have not been typical.
Felix mentions the presence of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in the area. Their visible presence has made many residents fearful, particularly in this largely Hispanic community. Since last year’s increased immigration crackdowns, fewer people have been visiting the pantry, especially in Freeport. The Trump administration aimed to deport thousands of individuals, leading to heightened anxiety among residents.
ICE hasn’t commented on the situation, but reports indicate that approximately 1,600 people on Long Island have been arrested. These cases are still going through the system. Notably, the number of adults seeking food assistance at the Freeport pantry dropped by 40.9%, from 2,236 in February 2025 to just 1,476 this year. The drop among children was even steeper—a staggering 48%, from 1,317 to 803.
“It’s a shocking turnaround at what has been our busiest pantry for years,” noted Peter Crescenti, a spokesperson for Long Island Cares. Other pantries are experiencing declines too, with Bethpage seeing a 28.64% drop and Hampton Bays down by 15%.
Freeport is a community in need. Nearly half of its 44,000 residents are Hispanic, and the poverty rate stands at 7.2%. Long Island Cares, founded by Harry Chapin’s family, has historically provided over 13 million pounds of food annually to those in need.
Dali Boczek, the director of satellite services, shared insights into the fear gripping the community. “People are concerned about coming out,” he said. On a recent crisp Wednesday morning, the pantry was quiet, a stark contrast to its usual bustling atmosphere.
Felix has witnessed the impact firsthand, knowing people who have already been deported. “I wish I could take food to those who need it, but I can’t always do that,” she explained. Volunteer Fernando Gonzalez echoed these concerns, noting that many are too scared to leave home for help.
If fewer individuals are seeking food, where are they getting it? That question lingers in the community. Amidst the challenges, Long Island Cares remains a critical lifeline for many, but fear continues to cloud the hope of those in need.
In light of the current trends, experts suggest that food insecurity linked to immigration policies could have long-term effects on community health and stability. According to a recent study by the Food Research & Action Center, food insecurity can lead to increased levels of stress, which may harm physical and mental health in affected areas.
The impact of these changes is significant, and understanding the community’s struggles is essential for fostering a supportive environment that uplifts those in need. For more insights about food insecurity in the U.S., check out the latest reports from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
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