NEW YORK—Governor Andrew Cuomo announced on Nov. 25 that the state will contribute $4.5 million to dozens of emergency food providers. The announcement comes on the heels of a Nov. 1 cut to Food Stamp benefits from the federal government.
In New York, 13 percent of the population is need of food assistance and demand continues to grow, the governor said. The cut in federal funding to food stamps in New York state totaled $300 million. With rising demand and shrinking funding, the problem “is compounding itself,” Cuomo said.
More than $2 million of the funds will go to providers in New York City. More than 2,600 emergency food providers are receiving grants across the state.
The Governor pegged the announcement to the spirit of sharing on Thanksgiving. He encouraged New Yorkers to contribute food and clothing at local donation centers.
“I do that with my kids and its a great service for the community, but also means a lot for the kids,” Cuomo said.