Food insecurity on Long Island has seen a dramatic increase, with recent reports highlighting a concerning trend that impacts thousands of residents. A new study by Feeding America, titled “Map the Meal Gap,” reveals a significant rise in the number of individuals struggling to access sufficient food. According to the 2022 report, approximately 221,190 people are facing food insecurity, marking a sharp 58.3% increase from the previous year. Children are particularly affected, with an estimated 44,780 living in food-insecure households, up 63.4% from 2021.
Paule Pachter, CEO of Long Island Cares, expressed alarm over the data, stating, “The numbers are quite disturbing and paint a bleak picture of hunger on our island, worsening even beyond the pandemic’s darkest days.” The organization noted a 37.4% increase in visits to their food pantries in 2023, further underscoring the growing need.
The high cost of living on Long Island exacerbates the challenge, as Randi Shubin Dresner, president of Island Harvest, pointed out. “The irony is stark – food insecurity is now worse than during the pandemic. The cost of basic, nutritious food has soared, pushing more families into difficult positions,” she explained.
Both leaders are advocating for substantial policy changes and increased funding for emergency food programs like SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) and HPNAP (Hunger Prevention and Nutrition Assistance Program). Currently, HPNAP’s funding stands at $57.8 million, significantly lower than the proposed $64 million deemed necessary to meet the growing demands.
Despite increases in federal funding for programs like TEFAP (The Emergency Food Assistance Program), disparities due to regional cost differences remain a critical issue. “Our current poverty measures are insufficient for regions like ours where living costs are high. We need a system that reflects these regional disparities to effectively address food insecurity,” added Pachter.
A spokesperson for Governor Hochul assured that the administration is committed to addressing these challenges, noting over $170 million secured for HPNAP and additional funding for the Nourish NY program. “The Governor will continue to prioritize food security and support for New York families,” the spokesperson said.
As Long Island’s food banks work tirelessly to distribute resources, the call for enhanced support and a reevaluation of poverty standards grows louder. The hope is that with increased awareness and concerted action, the meal gap on Long Island can be closed, ensuring no resident faces the trauma of food insecurity.
