New York Invests $500M to Boost Food Access and Farmers

By Blake Jackson

In recognition of Hunger Action Month, Governor Kathy Hochul announced that New York has invested more than $500 million since 2020 in initiatives that increase access to fresh, local food for those in need and provide new markets for the state’s farmers.

To mark Hunger Action Day, state landmarks will be illuminated in orange, highlighting the state’s ongoing efforts to combat hunger and encourage public involvement.

“New Yorkers band together during the toughest of times, including during the COVID-19 pandemic, helping their neighbors in need and supporting our farmers who continued to feed us. As our state began to emerge from the health crisis, I vowed to prioritize investments in our food access programs to help those New York families who were struggling to put food on the table,” Governor Hochul said.

“With more than $500 million invested since those early days, I’m proud of what we have been able to accomplish, reaching people in need while providing a boost to our farmers. New Yorkers always lend a helping hand in times of need, and I encourage everyone to get involved with their local food banks this Hunger Action Month.”

The Governor emphasized efforts to strengthen New York’s food system through programs administered by the Department of Agriculture and Markets, supporting farmers and connecting them to local markets.

Funding has supported food banks, schools, farms, and other organizations along the supply chain through 19 programs aimed at reducing hunger and promoting local agriculture.

Key initiatives include the FreshConnect programs, which double SNAP recipients’ buying power at farmers’ markets; the Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program, which provides coupons for fresh produce at more than 700 locations; and the Food Access Expansion Grant Program, investing $10 million to bring grocery access to underserved communities while boosting markets for local farmers.

Other programs include the Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure Grant, NYS Grown & Certified ITRD Grant, Regional School Food Infrastructure Grants, and the New York Food for New York Families Program, which has supplied nearly $50 million to purchase and distribute state-grown food to underserved communities.

These efforts collectively enhance access to healthy food, support farmers, and strengthen the state’s food supply network.

Photo Credit: istock-elenathewise