Overview
Due to the ongoing federal government shutdown, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has refused to release contingency funds for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
As a result, 1.8 million New Yorkers — including 540,000 children and 540,000 older adults — will lose access to their federally funded benefits starting November 1, 2025.
SNAP provides $420 million each month to help New Yorkers put food on the table.
What the City Is Doing
NYC has announced $15 million in emergency funding to strengthen New York City’s food assistance network and protect residents from hunger.
Key City actions include:
- $15 million in new funding for the Community Food Connection (CFC) program, supporting 700+ food pantries and community kitchens across the five boroughs.
- $820 million already invested this fiscal year in food programs:
- $627M – NYC Public Schools breakfast and lunch programs
- $70.6M – Home-delivered meals for older adults
- $58.6M – CFC food pantry network
- $10M – DOHMH “Groceries to Go” program
- $8.5M – DYCD youth meal programs
- Coordinated interagency outreach by DSS, HRA, MOFP, and other city agencies to ensure every SNAP recipient is connected to alternative food supports.
What the State Is Doing
New York State is also taking action:
- Governor Hochul announced $30 million in emergency food assistance for 16 million meals statewide.
- Attorney General Letitia James has joined 25 other states in a lawsuit against the USDA for illegally suspending benefits, citing $6 billion in unused contingency funds. These efforts aim to restore SNAP funding and protect the 42 million Americans who depend on this program.
Where to Find Food Help
If you or someone you know needs food assistance:
Call 311 and ask for food help, or use one of these tools:
- Community Food Connection Directory (HRA)
- DYCD Borough-Wide Food Pantries
- Food Bank NYC “Find Food” Tool
Additional supports:
- Students: NYC Public Schools continue to serve free breakfast and lunch daily.
- Older Adults: Visit one of 300+ NYC Aging Centers or call 212-AGING-NYC for meal programs and resources.
- Medicaid Members: Contact HRA to be screened for the Social Care Network program, which connects members to healthy food options and medically tailored meals.
Keep updated on the shutdown and how it affects benefits here.
How You Can Help
Donate:
Support the city’s food provider network through the
Mayor’s Fund to Advance New York City.
Volunteer:
Help stock, sort, or distribute food at a community pantry near you. Visit Food Bank NYC for opportunities
Suggested donations: canned proteins, grains, nut butters, and shelf-stable milk.
Every contribution makes a difference.
Stay Informed
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