BUFFALO, N.Y. — Two Western New York organizations were awarded a total of $1.9 million for food initiatives.
As part of Governor Kathy Hochul’s New York Food for New York Families Program, the funding will help New York farmers, keep a steady food supply chain, as well as fund projects that promotes New York-grown food purchases and distribution to underserved communities.
The program is funded by a United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) grant. A total of $7.6 million has been awarded to New York State.
The Food Policy Council of Buffalo and Erie County was awarded $1,045,557.89, and The Research Foundation for SUNY on behalf of the University at Buffalo was awarded just shy of $890,836.
“This additional funding from the New York Food for New York Families Program supports our ongoing efforts to strengthen our food supply chain, increase market access for our farmers, and bring more healthy, local food to New Yorkers,” said Hochul. “Our administration has been focused on implementing a number of programs that help to streamline the food system and make sure there is a better and more reliable connection between our farmers and our families in underserved food areas.”
In 2022, the USDA awarded New York State with $49.6 million for the New York Food for New York Families Program. The New York program is aimed at helping disadvantaged farmers, aiding producers in accessing new markets, filling gaps in the supply and distribution food chain, and expanding access to local food to underserved communities.
In the first round of funding, NYS awarded $40.8 million to 102 food organizations. In the second round, NYS awarded $7.6 million to 12 organizations.
“From Brooklyn to Buffalo, New York is working hard to make sure that kids and families have access to fresh, healthy, locally sourced food,” said Senator Chuck Schumer. “This federal USDA investment in the New York Food for New York Families program is a win for local farmers who get help selling their products and a win for families who get access to locally-grown food.”
According to Governor Hochul’s Office, these investments will help New Yorkers access fresh, local food.