by Chris Bean
March 18, 2014 – As an emergency food provider in the Bronx, Part of the Solution (POTS) was dreading the impact of the SNAP reductions in the Farm Bill. The individuals and families we serve were already struggling from the 2013 cuts, and another round would be devastating to sustain. It’s nearly impossible for low-income families to maintain healthy eating practices without food stamps. We are so thankful that Governor Cuomo recently stepped in to ensure that struggling New Yorkers won’t find their cupboards bare and their plates empty.
By preserving $457 million in SNAP benefits, the Governor has negated the second-wave of SNAP reductions and helped to ensure that low-income New Yorkers, including children, veterans and senior citizens, receive the essential nutrition assistance they need to maintain healthful lives. When our struggling families don’t have to worry about putting food on the table they are relieved of an immense burden and are better able to focus on their education, health, employment and other areas of critical importance.
We are so thankful that our mission of treating low-income people with dignity and respect is being reflected in our state government. Governor Cuomo has garnered state resources and allocated them to those who are, arguably, least capable of shouldering the burden of federal cuts. We at POTS could not be more appreciative of his support.
Chris Bean is the Executive Director of Part of the Solution (POTS) in the Bronx, a member of Food Bank For New York City’s network.