The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is a vital program that helps millions of Americans fight hunger. In New York, about 1.9 million people rely on SNAP to afford food, especially in cities like New York City, where living costs are high. As Congress debates the future of SNAP funding in the Farm Bill, families and groups across the state are working hard to protect it from cuts that could hurt millions of people.
Why SNAP is Essential for Millions of People
SNAP plays a huge role in the lives of families who struggle to buy food. In recent years, food insecurity has grown. The U.S. Census reports a 76% increase in New Yorkers having trouble accessing food compared to just two years ago. Joel Berg, CEO of Hunger Free America, says this is a big problem and needs to be addressed.
In New York City, SNAP helps buy around $5 billion worth of food every year. If Congress reduces SNAP’s budget, it could make it much harder for people to access food. Even a 10% cut in the program could mean $500 million less for groceries in New York.
Why Cutting SNAP is Dangerous
While food banks and charities help in times of need, they can’t replace the scale of assistance SNAP provides. Programs like SNAP, WIC, and school meal programs offer 17 times more food assistance than charities in the U.S. combined. Cutting SNAP would leave millions of people without food and put extra pressure on already overwhelmed food charities.
What Families and Organizations Are Doing to Protect SNAP
Many families, community groups, and local leaders are now urging Congress to keep SNAP funding as it is. They believe that reducing SNAP will harm both vulnerable families and local economies. Every dollar spent on SNAP supports local businesses, farmers, and grocers, creating a positive effect throughout the community.
What’s at Stake for SNAP’s Future?
The decisions Congress makes on SNAP funding will affect the lives of millions. If they cut the program, it could lead to more hunger, strain food programs, and harm public health in New York and across the country. SNAP is more than just a number in a budget—it’s a lifeline for families who need food to survive.
As lawmakers make decisions, families and organizations in New York are standing up to make sure their voices are heard, fighting to keep SNAP’s funding intact.
FAQ’s
How many people in New York rely on SNAP?
Around 1.9 million residents in New York depend on SNAP to buy food.
What would happen if SNAP funding was cut?
If SNAP funding were reduced by just 10%, it could lead to a $500 million cut in food for New York.
How does SNAP help local businesses?
Every dollar spent on SNAP helps local businesses, grocers, and farmers by creating steady demand for food.