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The Senate passed their version of the farm bill on Thursday, with a 86-11 vote. In response, Food Bank For New York City Vice President for Research & Public Affairs Triada Stampas released the following statement:
We commend the U.S. Senate for prioritizing our nation’s children, seniors, working families and veterans today by passing a bipartisan Farm Bill that protects our most vulnerable neighbors. We’re especially grateful to Senator Chuck Schumer and Senator Kirsten Gillibrand whose work to protect New Yorkers in need is more valuable than ever.
Unlike the legislation recently passed in the House of Representatives, the Senate’s Farm Bill maintains funding and access to SNAP, which is crucial for the more than 1.6 million hard-working New Yorkers who rely on this support to put food on the table—and millions more across the country.
In 35 years of service, Food Bank For New York City has learned that strong federal nutrition programs provide an essential foundation for the one in five New Yorkers who rely on soup kitchens and food pantries. Despite today’s victory for low-income families, we must stay vigilant as lawmakers continue to negotiate the final version of this important legislation.
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About Food Bank For New York City:
Food Bank For New York City has been the city’s major hunger-relief organization working to end hunger throughout the five boroughs for 35 years. Nearly one in five New Yorkers relies on Food Bank for food and other resources. Food Bank takes a strategic, multifaceted approach that provides meals and builds capacity in the neediest communities, while raising awareness and engagement among all New Yorkers. Through its network of more than 1,000 charities and schools citywide, Food Bank provides food for more than 62.5 million free meals for New Yorkers in need. Food Bank For New York City’s income support services, including food stamps (also known as SNAP) and free tax assistance for the working poor, put more than $150 million each year into the pockets of New Yorkers, helping them to afford food and achieve greater dignity and independence. In addition, Food Bank’s nutrition education programs and services empower more than 50,000 children, teens and adults to sustain a healthy diet on a low budget. To learn more about how you can help, please visit foodbanknyc.org. Follow us on Facebook (FoodBank4NYC), Twitter (@FoodBank4NYC) and Instagram (FoodBank4NYC).