Governor Kathy Hochul has declared a state of emergency in New York in response to the Trump administration’s decision to cut food assistance for nearly 3 million New Yorkers starting November 1. The move comes as the federal government continues its shutdown and refuses to release billions in contingency funds approved to support states during such crises.
$65 Million in New State Funds for Emergency Food Assistance
To address the looming food crisis, Governor Hochul announced $65 million in new state funds to provide emergency food assistance. This funding is expected to deliver around 40 million meals to New Yorkers and strengthen the state’s network of food banks and pantries.
Deployment of SUNY and Empire State Service Corps Members
The Governor is also deploying members of the SUNY Empire State Service Corps to assist local food banks during this period of heightened need. Additional measures being explored include establishing food hubs at schools to further support families.
Governor Criticizes Federal Inaction
“The Trump Administration is cutting food assistance for three million New Yorkers, creating an unprecedented public health crisis while impacting local grocers, bodegas, and farmers,” Governor Hochul said. “Unlike Washington Republicans, I will not sit idly by as families struggle to put food on the table. I am declaring a state of emergency and committing additional state resources to ensure no New Yorker goes hungry. Federal leaders have the power to stop this crisis — millions of families depend on it.”
SNAP Benefits Background
SNAP benefits, which are federally funded, provide about $650 million per month in assistance to nearly 3 million New Yorkers. State officials, including Governor Hochul, have emphasized that no state government can fully replace SNAP benefits if federal funding is withheld.
