Governor Kathy Hochul held a rally with New Yorkers affected by the federal government shutdown, unveiling $30 million in state funds to support emergency food assistance. The initiative aims to provide more than 16 million meals statewide, supplementing $11 million in emergency food aid announced last week. Nearly three million residents face the risk of losing Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits in November, just ahead of Thanksgiving.
The announcement follows federal officials at the U.S. Department of Agriculture refusing to release funds needed to maintain SNAP benefits. If unresolved, November would mark the first time in U.S. history that a federal shutdown halts food assistance.
Hochul also launched a new website, ny.gov/federalcuts, allowing residents to share personal stories about the impact of federal funding reductions on health care, food security, and other essential services. The portal provides regional breakdowns and resources for those affected.
Governor Hochul said she is “doing everything in my power to soften the blow of the destruction Republicans in Washington are inflicting on our state” and is “committed to ensuring New Yorkers do not go hungry this holiday season” as she announced new state measures to support residents affected by the federal shutdown.
The shutdown also threatens health care and energy assistance. Approximately 140,000 New Yorkers will face nearly a 40% increase in health insurance premiums starting November 1. Funding delays for the Home Energy Assistance Program affect more than 1.5 million residents as colder weather approaches.
Several lawmakers emphasized the human impact of the federal lapse. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand criticized congressional inaction, while Representative Jerrold Nadler noted that contingency funds could cover SNAP benefits but have not been used, adding, “If they refuse to act, it’s a deliberate choice to take food off the tables of millions of Americans.”
Other officials, including Representatives Nydia Velázquez, Gregory Meeks, and Grace Meng, highlighted the real-world consequences of cuts to food, health care, and heating programs. Nonprofit leaders reported surges in demand at food banks, warning families may face difficult choices without federal support.
Governor Hochul urged residents to use state resources and share their experiences through the new website while efforts continue to address the federal funding crisis.
