Rising food prices and the rollback of SNAP benefits have placed a significant strain on New York's food pantries. A recent USDA report highlights a nearly 6% increase in food-at-home prices over the past four years, intensifying the challenges faced by low-income families.

What You Need To Know

  • Rising food prices have exacerbated food insecurity, affecting minority communities disproportionately 

  • The rollback of SNAP benefits has increased reliance on food pantries across New York 

  • Food pantries depend heavily on donations, which are not meeting the growing demand

John McDonnell, executive director of the Guilderland Food Pantry, reports record numbers of visitors.

"We've had the highest numbers in our 45-year history," he said.

The end of pandemic-era emergency allotments (EAs) for SNAP has left many families struggling to make ends meet.

According to Natasha Pernicka, executive director of The Food Pantries for the Capital District, "We are seeing an entirely new group of people who are struggling, including retirees on limited incomes."

The USDA's 2023 Household Food Insecurity report reveals that over 12% of New York households with children face food insecurity.

Food pantries rely heavily on donations, but as McDonnell explained, "People are donating at the same levels as last year, which is not keeping up with inflation or the need."

The gap has significant implications for areas considered food deserts, where inadequate access to produce risks creating health issues due to poor nutrition.

The issue extends beyond the Capital Region and affects communities statewide.

Pernicka emphasized the need for community support during the holiday season.

"Food pantries need your support. Many will turn to us to help make ends meet," Pernicka said.

For those seeking assistance from a local pantry, please visit here.