State Awards $1.7M+ For Hudson Valley Emergency Food Assistance

YONKERS, NY — Governor Andrew Cuomo announced recently that $1.7 million has been awarded to four emergency food relief organizations in the Mid-Hudson region through the Hunger Prevention and Nutrition Assistance Program, administered by the Department of Health. Overall, $36.5 million in statewide funding will benefit eight regional food banks and more than 2,600 food pantries and soup kitchens, which together provide more than 216 million meals a year to low income New Yorkers.

"This funding will help ensure that some of the most vulnerable New Yorkers will continue to be able to put food on their tables and provide for their families," Cuomo said. "It is our responsibility to ensure that every member of the New York family is treated with respect and dignity and this program brings us one step closer to a stronger, healthier Empire State for all."

Emergency food relief organizations serve as a safety net for people in need in New York. Although some individuals and families are eligible for federal food assistance, it is often not enough, and food pantries and soup kitchens operated by these organizations help fill the gap. (For more information on this and other neighborhood stories, subscribe to Patch to receive daily newsletters and breaking news alerts.)

To ensure better nutrition, agencies receiving these awards are required to devote a portion of the funding to food identified as helpful in the prevention of chronic diseases, such as diabetes and obesity. These foods include low-fat milk and fresh vegetables and fruits. In addition to providing food, the Hunger Prevention and Nutrition Assistance Program helps emergency food relief organizations provide clients with information on the benefits of healthy eating, strategies for healthy behaviors, and simple recipes that incorporate healthy foods. Many food banks and soup kitchens also offer monthly cooking workshops and food safety trainings to their clients.

New York State Department of Health Commissioner Dr. Howard Zucker said, "This funding ensures that all New Yorkers, regardless of income, will have access to healthy food. A nutritious well-balanced diet is essential for improving health and preventing disease. I applaud Governor Cuomo for his ongoing commitment to combatting hunger and promoting good nutrition."

Funding has been awarded to the following organizations:

• Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County, Middletown, $175,000
• Grace Episcopal Church, Monroe, $115,764
• The Food Bank for Westchester, Inc., Elmsford, $1,334,622
• YMCA of Yonkers, Inc., Yonkers, $100,000

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