Metzger bill would double funding for NY food bank initiative
ROSENDALE, N.Y. » State Sen. Jen. Metzger has introduced legislation to double the funding for the Nourish NY program, which helps food banks buy New York farm products.
The bill (S8504) would require the state to give NY Nourish $25 million in unallocated funding from the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act of 2020 or other future federal stimulus money, according to Metzger, DRosendale.
Nourish NY, created in response to an increase in food insecurity during the COVID-19 pandemic,
“provides funding to food banks throughout the state to purchase New York-produced fruits, vegetables and dairy products for distribution to local food pantries and community groups serving food-insecure households,” Metzger said in a statement.
Metzger chairs the Senate Agriculture Committee.
The initial $25 million for the program came from supplemental funding in the 2020-21 state budget in anticipation of emergency needs, Metzger said. She said her legislation, which currently is in the Senate Rules Committee, would enable the program to expand as need grows.
“As a result of the disruptions and financial hardships caused by the COVID-19 outbreak, New Yorkers are experiencing real food insecurity, while many farmers and processors throughout the state are struggling with significant market uncertainty,” Metzger said. “Increasing funding for this state program is a great way to support our farms while also addressing the growing problem of food insecurity during this difficult time.”