Department Issues Guidance to Schools to Support Students and Families Experiencing Food Insecurity

In anticipation of the November 1 lapse in SNAP funding, the State Education Department today issued guidance to schools and local educational agencies to support students and their families experiencing food insecurity. The Department is proud of the many schools that already provide services and programs to meet the needs of their community members and will continue to assist schools that have new needs as a result of community members' loss of benefits.

Board of Regents Chancellor Lester W. Young, Jr said, "We know that students cannot be expected to learn, grow, or reach their full potential when they are hungry. As our nation faces the loss of SNAP funding, we must ensure that no child experiences that reality. The Board of Regents stands with administrators, educators, and schools across New York as they continue to serve as anchors of care and stability within their communities. Together, we will uphold our unwavering commitment to equity, compassion, and opportunity for all."

Commissioner Betty A. Rosa said, "The loss of SNAP funding poses a dire challenge for families here in New York State, and in times like these, we have a moral obligation to work together. Schools have always been more than just places of learning-they are lifelines for their neighbors and their communities. In partnership with Governor Hochul and state agencies, along with BOCES, districts, and schools across the state, we will do all we can to keep New York's students healthy, nourished, and ready to learn."

The following information and resources were provided to offer additional assistance to those in need.

• Continuing the Universal Meal Program: The program is unaffected and will continue to provide breakfast and lunch to students at no cost. Due to the loss of SNAP benefits, more families may choose to access this program, so schools should anticipate an increased need to meet increased demand.
• Collaborating with State Agencies: SED will continue to work with Governor Hochul and State Agencies to support initiatives that address food insecurity in schools and their communities.
• Working with Schools: The Department recognizes that lapses in the distribution of food benefits will impact students and their families in a wide variety of ways. SED stands ready to assist schools navigate challenges that may arise.
• Partner with Regional and Community Food Banks: Food banks will continue to provide nutrition options and distribution efforts for families. SED encourages districts and BOCES to connect with food banks to partner on distribution and other ways to ensure students do not face food insecurity.
• Regularly Share Local Food Assistance Information: Widely and regularly share information to connect the school community with the locations for local food assistance, such as the New York State Department of Health's Regional Food Bank Map, and send hard copies of resources to go home with students in addition to website links.
• Seek food insecurity-trained student support through SUNY's Empire State Service Corps. Districts in need of additional volunteers for food pantries or community schools can request assistance by submitting the 2025-26 Empire State Service Corps - Host Site Application form.

SUNY Chancellor Dr. John B. King Jr. said, "Through the leadership of Governor Kathy Hochul, the Empire State Service Corps has provided SUNY students with the opportunity to participate in civic engagement and support their local communities while receiving valuable training and financial support for their hard work. As the state faces this food insecurity crisis, we are proud that SUNY Empire State Service Corps students are stepping up and taking action to help their fellow New Yorkers."