CARTHAGE, New York (WWNY) – Governor Kathy Hochul has announced a $ 234 million increase in food aid for the rest of June.
This means that those in SNAP, or Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, can receive the maximum level of food benefits based on their individual situation.
Those already receiving the maximum will also receive an additional boost.
However, some people still use food pantries
“So if they have food stamps and they just can’t do it, it’s as if the price of gas has gone up so high that I need that extra help. Food stamps cover only half of the food, ”said Angela Sixberry, a volunteer at V.E.M Food Pantry.
She says she saw traffic pick up at the depot. Families from 1 to 10 come in regularly to choose food, but also other household goods.
“People are looking for non-food items that you can’t get on food stamps, but they also come for all other foods because there are people who don’t get food stamps because they don’t qualify,” she said.
The food pantry operates according to a point system based on family size. For example, a family of 4 gets 14 points, which may be enough to get some meat, canned goods, and pasta.
Sixberry says volunteers at the store help families prepare meals. This makes it easier for families to choose their food.
But, some say food prices are rising, it can be difficult for families with large households.
“People with children and stuff like that, they have to pay for day care and stuff and moreover they have to pay high food and high gas prices just to survive,” said Mariam Paddock, a retired resident.
To see what you can choose with SNAP, click here.
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