The federal government has announced that Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, formerly known as Food Stamps) benefits will be suspended starting Saturday, November 1st.

This change will leave tens of thousands of New Yorkers — children, seniors, veterans, and families — without critical food assistance right as the holiday season begins. Our staff across Catholic Charities of New York are already preparing to respond with compassion and urgency. Every day, we hear from worried neighbors who depend on SNAP to feed their families.

“It is deeply troubling to see so many households who rely on SNAP now facing uncertainty about where their next meal will come from,” said Lakisha Morris, Director of Food and Housing Stability at Catholic Charities Community Services. “No one should have to experience this kind of fear or instability. Access to nutritious food is not a privilege, it is a human right.”

We know that the coming weeks will bring a surge in need, especially as Thanksgiving approaches. To ensure that no one goes hungry, Catholic Charities is:

• Expanding food distributions at our pantries and community centers across New York to ensure families can still put meals on the table.

• Mobilizing our caseworkers and volunteers to help families navigate this crisis and connect with emergency resources.

• Partnering with local parishes and agencies to reach those who will be hardest hit by the suspension of benefits.

Together, we can stand with those affected by this crisis and ensure that every family experiences the dignity and hope they deserve.

Please consider making a special gift today to help provide food and other emergency support for our most vulnerable neighbors. Thank you for your generous support.