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The City of Newburgh has announced a $100,000 emergency aid program to support households affected by the federal suspension of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. This decision, made by the Newburgh City Council, aims to mitigate the impact on thousands of families facing food insecurity due to the loss of SNAP benefits.
According to the City of Newburgh, the funds are reallocated from federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) resources. The program will provide $150 grocery store gift cards to nearly 700 households currently receiving SNAP, prioritizing families and seniors at high risk of food insecurity.
Mayor Torrance Harvey emphasized the city's commitment to addressing hunger, stating, "The Newburgh City Council will not sit idly by while vulnerable children, seniors, and families are placed at risk of hunger." He also urged Orange County to take similar steps to assist the over 19,000 households countywide affected by these federal actions.
City Manager Todd Venning highlighted the responsible use of existing federal resources to stabilize those most at risk. The city is also exploring partnerships and private donations to expand the program. Local businesses and community groups interested in contributing can contact the City Manager’s Office.
The initiative comes as communities like Middletown also reallocate funds to support SNAP recipients, reflecting a broader regional response to the federal benefit cuts.