New York State Produced Food to Be Distributed by the Food Bank of Central NY as Part of Governor Cuomo’s Nourish NY Initiative

WHAT:         The Food Bank of Central New York is hosting a drive-through food distribution of New York State agricultural products as part of Governor Andrew Cuomo’s Nourish New York initiative. Through Nourish New York, the Food Bank of Central New York has purchased New York dairy products, fruits and vegetables, which will be provided to approximately 1,000 families in need of food assistance due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Governor Cuomo’s Nourish New York initiative provides $25 million for food banks across the state to procure products produced in New York. Subsequent distributions of New York produced food will be held at sites across the region at locations and dates to be determined.

WHEN:         12 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 12, 2020.
Interview opportunities 12 p.m. – 1 p.m.                         

WHERE:       Behind the New York State Fairgrounds Horticulture Building, 581 State Fair Blvd., Syracuse, NY 13209.  Media should enter through Gate 2.

WHY:            Amid an unprecedented surge in demand for food assistance across New York State, Governor Andrew Cuomo recently announced that the state is providing $25 million for food banks and other emergency food providers. The Nourish New York initiative aims to quickly reroute New York’s surplus agricultural products (including products grown in Central New York) to the populations who need them through the state’s food banks. The Nourish New York program also provides economic relief for the state’s food producers.

Food Bank of Central New York has seen more than a 20% increase in demand for emergency food throughout its 11-county service area. During the month of March, the Food Bank distributed 1.8 million pounds of food; in April that number rose to 2 million pounds. April’s distribution represents a 40% increase in pounds distributed compared to a typical pre-COVID-19 month.

WHO:            NYS Department of Agriculture & Markets Commissioner Richard A. Ball

Food Bank of Central New York Interim Executive Director Karen Belcher