Public private efforts support food security in NYC
As the federal shutdown continues into its second month, New York City Mayor Eric Adams has announced a series of public-private initiatives to support nearly 1.8 million residents who rely on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. With federal funding halted and no contingency funds released by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, these measures aim to provide relief to vulnerable families.
The initiative builds on the city’s $15 million investment and $820 million annual food services budget. Partnering organizations include the New York Community Trust, United Way of New York City, and the Partnership for New York City. Together, they are mobilizing donations, food resources, and emergency relief through local nonprofits.
“Local government and philanthropy cannot come close to replacing federally funded entitlement programs, but we can certainly help support the organizations that are collecting and distributing food during this emergency,” said Kathryn Wylde, president & CEO, Partnership for New York City. “We will encourage member companies and foundations to support the efforts of the mayor and governor to meet this crisis and to invest in the funds that New York Community Trust has designated.”
Key contributors include City Harvest, Food Bank for NYC, Lemontree, and The Roundtable: Allies for Food Access. Each organization will deliver food aid and resources through hundreds of community partners across the city.
The USDA estimates every dollar in SNAP spending generates $1.54 in economic activity, making the pause a significant blow to the local economy. To counter this, city agencies are coordinating outreach and ensuring at-risk residents can access food pantries and community meal programs.
Mayor Adams encouraged local leaders and businesses to participate, emphasizing that collective action will ensure no New Yorker goes hungry during this crisis.
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