New York Food Banks Are In Need of Donations

Right now, there is a lot of discussion about food insecurity in the Hudson Valley, so I thought it was a good time to share information on where you can get food if you need it, and also places you can donate food if you want to help.

As someone who still has the funds to shop for groceries, I am saddened by the thought of people in our community who don't have that ability right now due to the situation surrounding the government shutdown. The grocery I shop at is popular with seniors in my community, and I hate the thought of some of them not having the food they need.

Ulster County Executive Releases Funds for Food Banks

On Friday, the Ulster County Executive announced that emergency measures were put in place to help vulnerable residents have access to food. County Funding money was redirected to three area food pantries to help them manage the increase in need.

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...... nearly $350,000 in County funding to three major food pantries, based on their wide operating hours and geographic reach: People’s Place (Kingston), Rondout Valley Food Pantry (Stone Ridge), and Family of Woodstock (Woodstock, Ellenville, New Paltz). (Ulster County Executive via Facebook)

The County Executive also shared in a Facebook post that " Nearly 1 in 10 Ulster County residents — approximately 18,000 people — rely on SNAP to afford enough to eat."

Food Pantries And Meal Programs in Ulster County

If you need food assistance, Family of Woodstock asks that you reach out. They have programs that can help. On Saturday, they shared a map they put together of food banks and food pantries that are accessible by UCAT. They also have more information online at familyofwoodstockinc.org.

Where to Donate Food in the Hudson Valley

During this time of year, our Hudson Valley food pantries and our banks are looking for your donations. The Holiday season can mean that more people are relying on food assistance. If you are someone who wants to give, you can most likely do so in your own community. To find a location near you, check with the Regional Food Bank Hudson Valley.