One in seven New York residents rely on SNAP – A fresh investment is helping put local produce on their tables

ALTAMONT, N.Y. (NEWS10) — Nearly three million people in the state of New York rely on SNAP benefits. That’s approximately one in seven people in the state. Today, Capital Roots volunteers are making a difference to support those families facing food insecurity. Hannaford Supermarkets recently invested over one hundred sixty thousand dollars into Capital Roots to support their Squash Hunger program. The funding is now being used to relaunch their gleaning initiatives, partnering with local farms to donate the end of their harvest to families in need. 

“It’s all about doing what’s best for the country, the people make up the country,” said volunteer Steffi Silon.

Volunteers picked apples at Indian Ladder Farms, clearing as many of the leftover crops as they could, to donate to those in need.

“At Hannaford, we focus on food access year round,” explained Hannaford community impact manager, Sherri Stevens. “We do have food insecurity in our states. We understand that. And we want to do everything that we can year round to support those families. This is really important to us. We want our communities to be healthy. So this is one example.”

Once the apples are harvested, they’re sent to emergency food programs to serve those in need across eleven counties. Capital Roots representatives say they hope others will get involved. 

“Everyone can do it, children can do it, no matter your age, no matter your financial situation, you can come out, you can volunteer, you can help pick some food and make a difference,” said Capital Roots CEO, Amy Klein.

Local senior citizens Maria Ortiz and Steffi Silon proved just that.

“We can volunteer because luckily we’re able bodied, even if we are seniors,” stated Silon.

They said volunteering their time was a given, and they hope others consider doing the same.

“It’s amazing to see all the people who came out today for Capital Roots, for people in our community,” explained Silon. “So do the same thing in your community. It may not be picking apples. Do what’s available.”

In the face of the government shutdown, Silon hopes that communities and local officials can work together to find a solution.

“It’s a horrible situation that SNAP benefits are cut off nationwide since November 1st, and hopefully our governor and other legislators will rally as they’re trying to do for the people in New York state,” Silon noted. “I know there’s going to be backlash from those who think it’s a waste and they don’t think it makes a difference, but I think that’s the key. Learning from each other what works and what doesn’t work, and how to make a difference.”

Silon said she feels that by volunteering for Capital Roots, she’s able to help community members who are struggling.

“Why would you take away from people who are working, or disabled, or elderly and can’t get out,” Silon added. “We need to do everything we can for our neighbors and people we don’t know. It’s just ethical, it’s moral, and it’s the right thing to do. Not to end programs that people need. So we came out to do our part. It may be little, but maybe it’ll feed some families and make a difference.”

For those dealing with food insecurity in the state of New York, local food pantries, community kitchens, and organizations like Capital Roots urge you to reach out if you’re in need.