New York – A recent USDA report indicates that the number of New York State residents experiencing food insecurity and hunger increased to a record 2.5 million, the highest figure in New York State history.  In light of recent 40% reduction in federal funding to food banks, soup kitchens, and food pantries and looming billion-dollar cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), food instability and hunger pose increasingly serious threats to those children and families living in low-income households. 

“In a state that has reduced taxes on the wealthiest citizens and balanced the budget on the backs of the neediest, it is shameful that these conditions are allowed to persist in New York State,” said Richard Buery, President and CEO of the Children’s Aid Society. “Lack of access to basic nutrition disrupts every aspect of life for those it affects. It is particularly devastating for children, who may suffer from serious long term health problems, development issues and difficultly learning as a result. The state has a responsibility to its residents to reinstate funding for programs that address food insecurity and to provide basic services for the most vulnerable members of our community.”

The Children’s Aid Societyis an independent, not-for-profit organization established to serve the children of New York City.  Our mission is to help children in poverty to succeed and thrive. We do this by providing comprehensive supports to children and their families in targeted high-needs New York City neighborhoods. Founded in 1853, it is one of the nation’s largest and most innovative non-sectarian agencies, serving New York’s neediest children. Services are provided in community schools, neighborhood centers, health clinics and camps. For additional information, please call Anthony Ramos at (212) 949-4938/ (347) 439-7727, email anthonyr@childrensaidsociety.orgor visit www.childrensaidsociety.org.