The Farm Bill is a crucial piece of federal legislation that covers various aspects of food production and distribution in the United States. Its current expiration date is September 30. However, the state of New York and its organizations are facing significant hardships in serving their communities. It is vital for Congress to take immediate action and implement policies that support local farmers, while also addressing hunger and food insecurity at both the state and national levels.
One consequence of the pandemic was the discontinuation of a special supplement to SNAP (formerly known as the federal Food Stamps program) last spring. As a result, around 3 million New Yorkers experienced a reduction in available funds for groceries. This created additional strain on the charitable food system, including organizations like the Regional Food Bank of Northeastern NY. Through partnerships with 900 agencies, such as Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Albany, this food bank distributes approximately 50 million pounds of food annually to nearly 10,000 individuals.
A significant portion of the federal Farm Bill’s funding goes towards supporting SNAP, which assists over 40 million people each month, primarily children, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. SNAP provides low-income households with electronic debit cards that can be used to purchase nutritious food at most grocery stores and some farmers markets. It represents a commitment to ending hunger in America and offers struggling families a chance to regain stability.
Congress must reject any attempts to reduce benefits provided by SNAP. It is unjust to target nutrition assistance reductions at individuals experiencing food insecurity, including impoverished children. Instead, Congress should consider redirecting agricultural subsidies to support smaller farmers in need and to provide assistance to those who are hungry.
We are urging Congress to strengthen SNAP by basing monthly benefits on the USDA’s Low-Cost Food Plan, granting all SNAP participants the ability to purchase hot and prepared meals using their benefits, removing existing barriers to access for seniors, college students, and adults without dependents, as well as lifting the five-year ban on SNAP participation for lawfully present immigrants.
Furthermore, we request that Congress evaluate the USDA’s Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP), which allocates $500 million per year for food purchases by food banks and pantries nationwide. TEFAP plays a pivotal role in meeting the increasing demand for assistance. Without this essential source of high-quality and nutritious food, we cannot adequately address local needs.
Representatives from food banks across the nation will be delivering this message in Washington in the coming month. While we appreciate the efforts of our allies in D.C., we need further action. Congress must ensure that we do not regress in our fight against food insecurity. The well-being of countless families depends on it.
Sr. Betsy Van Deusen, CSJ, serves as the CEO of Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Albany, and Tom Nardacci is the CEO of the Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York.
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