January 22, 2024

We commend Governor Hochul for her leadership in ensuring that no child in New York goes hungry. The Governor understands that providing children with universal access to nutritious school meals not only enhances academic performance but also enriches their lives in numerous meaningful ways. Over 250 anti-hunger groups and community coalitions in New York, including the Regional Food Bank, made this issue our number one priority this budget year.

We are also grateful to the Governor for including increased funding for Nourish New York and Hunger Prevention and Assistance Program (HPNAP) in her budget. Nourish New York is one of the best programs in the country to fight food insecurity. By linking New York farmers and producers with those in need, the program ensures that high-quality, nutritious, and locally sourced food is at the forefront of the fight against hunger. In a state with so much prosperity and abundance, it is hard to imagine so many people are going hungry. We are grateful that Governor Hochul included an increase in funding for HPNAP. Year-over-year the State Legislature has added legislative funding for HPNAP, and it’s a critical turning point that the Governor established this new baseline.

Tom Nardacci, CEO
Regional Food Bank