Food Bank For New York City Applauds Increases To Key Anti-Hunger Programs In COVID Relief Package, Urges Further Long-Term Action
NEW YORK – Today, Food Bank For New York City released the following statement in response to the newly passed COVID relief package, which provides incremental support for struggling families, including a temporary increase to SNAP through June, 2021 and additional food for the federal program that supports our nation’s network of Food Banks.
Food Bank For New York City’s President and CEO Leslie Gordon said:
“As COVID-19 and economic fallout continues to ravage community health and food security, we are proud of our NYC delegation and Leader Charles Schumer for working to ensure key anti-hunger programs were included in this much-needed federal relief package.
“This legislation will help millions of Americans at this critical time, and it represents a step in the right direction. The 15% increase in SNAP and funding for essential emergency food initiatives will bring some of the relief that so many New Yorkers and Americans desperately need.
“At the same time, we still have so much work to do so our low-income neighbors can put a warm meal on the table. Food insecurity has surged since the onset of the pandemic – since the start of the outbreak alone, Food Bank For New York City has distributed more than 77 million meals to New Yorkers in need, a 70% increase over last year. Comprehensive, long-term relief is critical to protecting low-income communities and rebuilding this country.”
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About Food Bank For New York City
Since 1983, Food Bank For New York City has been the city’s major hunger-relief organization working to end hunger throughout the five boroughs. 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 provided more than 80 million free meals last year 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 nearly $36 million each year into the pockets of New Yorkers, helping them to afford food and achieve greater dignity and independence. Food Bank’s nutrition education programs and services empower more than 50,000 children, teens and adults to sustain a healthy diet and active lifestyle on a limited budget. Working toward long-term solutions to food poverty, Food Bank develops policy and conducts research to inform community and government efforts. To learn more about how you can help, please visit foodbanknyc.org. Follow us on Facebook (FoodBank4NYC), Twitter (@FoodBank4NYC) and Instagram (@FoodBank4NYC).
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