NEWYORK: Governor Kathy Hochul announced $8.3 million in capital grants for 59 food banks and emergency food assistance organizations across New York State through the New York Providing Local Access to Essential Sustenance (NY PLATES) program.
The grants will help organizations expand food storage, improve distribution and upgrade facilities that serve New Yorkers facing food insecurity.
“No New Yorker should have to worry about where their next meal is coming from,” Governor Hochul said.
“As Washington cuts critical food assistance programs, New York is stepping up to help the organizations that families depend on every day. These investments will give food banks and pantries the equipment and infrastructure they need to reach more people, reduce food waste and ensure families across our state have access to fresh, nutritious food.”
Governor Hochul secured $10 million for NY PLATES in the FY27 Enacted Budget to strengthen the state’s emergency food assistance network amid federal cuts to critical nutrition programs.
The newly announced grants will support projects ranging from refrigerated trucks and expanded cold storage to building renovations and warehouse equipment.
Recipients span all 10 Regional Economic Development Council regions and include large regional food banks serving multiple counties and smaller community organizations providing direct assistance to local residents.
“Food banks and pantries need reliable facilities and equipment to serve their communities. These grants will help organizations make practical improvements that allow them to store more food, reduce waste and reach more families. DASNY is proud to administer NY PLATES in partnership with the Department of Health and help deliver these investments to communities across New York State,” said DASNY President & CEO Robert J. Rodriguez.
“Access to healthy, nutritious food is essential to good overall health and well-being and is a vital social determinant of health. Food banks and emergency food organizations are cornerstones of local communities across the state, ensuring no family goes hungry. These investments will help strengthen the organizations that New Yorkers rely on for food assistance. I thank Governor Hochul for her continued commitment to supporting programs that improve nutrition and advance health equity,” said State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald.
“I was proud to support renewed investments in the SFY 2026-2027 budget that will help build a stronger emergency food system across New York State and New York City. As food insecurity continues to rise across the nation, and states and counties grapple with Congress’ single largest divestment in SNAP, New York must ensure that emergency food resources are ready to meet what have been unprecedented demands. Thank you Governor Hochul for getting this critical funding out the door to our communities’ trusted partners,” said State Senator Roxanne J. Persaud.
