The fear of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) being cut as a result of the government shutdown that began Oct. 1 has become reality. More than 42 million people will be affected, the USDA reported. But New York State residents will be at a loss of crucial aid as 14.7% of people statewide will be affected, with children, the elderly, and people with disabilities being at the forefront of this loss, according to the Hunter College New York City Food Policy Center. This affects K-12 children in particular and advocates say it is a necessity in danger of disappearing. City records show more than 806,000 children qualified for free or reduced-price lunch in 20240, according to Chalkbeat. “SNAP is a lifeline for those children and their families; it increases food security, improves health outcomes, and supports learning and development,” said Krista Hesdorfer, director of public affairs at Hunger Solutions. “Emergency food providers, including New York City’s food banks and pantries, will do everything they can to help families navigate the crisis, but there is no matching the scale of SNAP.” “For every one meal provided by a food bank or pantry, SNAP provides nine,” Hesdorfer said. “Losing SNAP will be a devastating financial blow to families who are already struggling with rising costs for everything from food to health care and housing.”
To help alleviate the burden on the families, state education officials have announced measures to offset the impact of any SNAP losses to children.
First, the Universal Meal Program will remain unaffected and free breakfast and lunches will still be provided to students. Second, the state Education Department will support initiatives that address food insecurity among children. They will also partner with community food banks, which provide distribution channels for families in need.
The State University of New York’s Empire State Service Corps will be giving support through trained volunteers. Assistance can be requested by submitting the 2025-26 Empire State Service Corps – Host Site Application form.
“The loss of SNAP funding poses a dire challenge for families here in New York State, and in times like these, we have a moral obligation to work together,” said NYS Education Department Commissioner Dr. Betty A. Rosa. “Schools have always been more than just places of learning — they are lifelines for their neighbors and their communities.”
The Trump administration, after an edict imposed by federal judges, announced that it will partially fund SNAP for November through contingency funds that were already available. Gov. Kathy Hochul had already announced $65 million for food assistance, while Mayor Eric Adams has announced $15 million in emergency funding for food assistance.
“The federal government shutdown is threatening to cut access to food for 1.8 million New Yorkers who rely on SNAP to feed their families,” said Adams in a statement. “We are activating all of our social services agencies to ensure they are prepared to contribute where they can, and we urge our philanthropic partners, faith leaders, and community members to contribute even more.”
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