New York declares emergency to fund food banks amid federal shutdown
Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency on Thursday to release $65 million in aid for food banks, as the shutdown continues
NEW YORK (MNTV) – Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency on Thursday to release $65 million in aid for food banks, as the federal government shutdown threatens to end Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.
The governor’s office said the new funding will provide about 40 million meals across New York, strengthening the state’s network of food banks and pantries.
“Donald Trump and Republicans in Congress have the power to stop this crisis — millions of families depend on it,” Hochul said during a press briefing, accusing the administration of cutting food assistance for nearly three million New Yorkers.
New York distributes roughly $650 million in SNAP benefits monthly to about three million residents.
Hochul and other governors have warned that state governments cannot replace or supplement the federally funded program.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer also cautioned that millions nationwide could lose food assistance if the shutdown continues.
Now in its 30th day, the shutdown — the second-longest in US history — began Oct. 1 after Congress failed to reach an agreement on spending priorities, forcing thousands of federal workers to go unpaid as key services remain suspended.
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