With nearly 2 million people in New York City at risk of losing federal food assistance, schools are stepping up to help hungry families. The recent announcement that the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) may be cut off starting November 1 has left many in panic. If this happens, around 1.8 million city residents — including about 500,000 children — could be without crucial food support.
Last year, over three-quarters of NYC school students were eligible for government programs like free or reduced-price lunch, showcasing the challenge ahead. School leaders are worried about the effects of losing food benefits on children’s well-being and learning. Ben Geballe, principal of M.S. 131, emphasized, “If you’re on SNAP, you’re living on the edge already.”
To address this impending crisis, schools are swiftly creating food distribution plans. Geballe’s school is restarting a food pantry, providing groceries every two weeks to families in need. They’re also engaging students, allowing them to contribute to the pantry. Schools like M.S. 50 in Williamsburg are working with local restaurants to provide meal vouchers for families without kitchen access.
Some state leaders are pledging support. Governor Kathy Hochul has allocated $30 million to cover meals at food pantries. Attorneys are also urging the U.S. Department of Agriculture to use emergency funds for SNAP. Despite this, many schools still wait for a coordinated effort from city officials to provide additional food to families losing benefits.
Past events show us that during the COVID-19 pandemic, schools became vital food distribution centers, giving out millions of meals. This existing infrastructure could easily be utilized again. As Principal Kiri Soares from the Urban Assembly Institute points out, “The infrastructure is there. It would be an easy switch to flip.”
As schools scramble to ensure students and families don’t go hungry, the community’s resilience is evident. However, the looming SNAP cuts serve as a reminder of the ongoing struggles many families face in accessing adequate nutrition. система us on social media indicate that support for food initiatives is growing, with many rallying around school-led efforts to help those in need during this challenging time.
For more information about the SNAP program and its impact, you can check out reports from trusted sources like the Independent Budget Office.
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