(WNY News Now) – With millions of New Yorkers at risk of losing food and health assistance due to federal funding delays, Governor Kathy Hochul has announced $30 million in state emergency funding to help provide more than 16 million meals statewide.
ALBANY, N.Y. — Governor Kathy Hochul held a rally this week alongside New Yorkers impacted by recent federal funding disruptions, announcing $30 million in emergency state funds to support food assistance programs as federal funds remain frozen. The move comes amid warnings that nearly three million residents could lose Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits beginning November 1 due to the ongoing federal government shutdown.
According to the Governor’s office, the fast-tracked funds will provide more than 16 million meals across the state. The announcement follows a separate $11 million emergency allocation made last week to support local food banks.
Hochul said the emergency aid is intended to bridge the gap created by the federal government’s delay in releasing SNAP funds, a move she described as unprecedented. “I am committed to ensuring New Yorkers do not go hungry this holiday season,” Hochul said. “While no state can fully replace these federal programs, we are taking action to protect families who are suffering the consequences of this shutdown.”
The Governor also unveiled a new online portal, ny.gov/federalcuts, where residents can share their experiences and find information on resources available to those affected by the cuts. The site outlines potential statewide impacts, including disruptions to food, healthcare, heating, and early education programs.
State officials warn that, in addition to the potential loss of food benefits:
- 140,000 New Yorkers could see health insurance premiums rise by nearly 40% beginning November 1.
- More than 1.5 million households may face delays in receiving Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) funds as winter approaches.
- Federal cuts could jeopardize funding for Head Start education and infrastructure projects across New York.
Several members of New York’s congressional delegation expressed concern over the potential fallout. U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand said the federal shutdown has left working families vulnerable at a critical time, urging Congress to restore essential funding. Representative Jerrold Nadler called on federal officials to use contingency funds to prevent an interruption in SNAP benefits, describing food assistance as “a lifeline for millions of Americans.”
Other state and federal lawmakers echoed those concerns, emphasizing the need for bipartisan cooperation to restore government operations and safeguard critical services.
Governor Hochul reaffirmed her commitment to supporting residents through state-level initiatives but underscored that long-term relief must come from Washington. “New York will continue to stand up for families and communities, but it’s time for federal leaders to do their part,” she said.
Residents who rely on SNAP are advised to monitor official updates, as the state continues to coordinate with federal agencies to mitigate potential disruptions in November.
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