As many of our patients are aware, there has been ongoing uncertainty regarding the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), and many of our neighbors in the Hudson Valley are facing potential challenges.
SNAP, formerly known as food stamps, is the country’s largest anti-hunger program. The program serves about 1 in 8 Americans and is a major piece of the nation’s social safety net. With delays to November SNAP benefits, we want to make sure you are aware of the resources available to you during this time.
State and Local Commitment to Support
Governor Kathy Hochul and state leaders have been working to ensure that those who rely on SNAP benefits are not left without support. While we continue to monitor any changes or updates regarding the situation, here’s a summary of the efforts made to ensure the health and well-being of New Yorkers:
- Federal Update: Two federal judges ruled that the Trump administration has to tap into emergency funds to at least partially cover November food assistance. Benefits will be delayed in November regardless of the outcome of the court cases because many beneficiaries have their cards recharged early in the month and the process of loading cards can take a week or more in many states.
- NY Governor’s Office Support: New York Governor Kathy Hochul has allocated $106 million in State funds for emergency food assistance, should the need arise. If you are a New York State resident who uses SNAP, you will be notified by Saturday, November 1, 2025 of any official updates regarding the status of your November benefits.
- Local Community Support: At the local level, organizations are stepping up to support our community members. They are preparing to offer immediate assistance to families in need, with a focus on food distribution and other critical needs. The City of Newburgh and the City of Middletown have both announced emergency relief programs for families currently receiving SNAP benefits.
City of Newburgh
The City of Newburgh has allocated $100,000 in emergency aid to assist City households impacted by the federal suspension of SNAP benefits. The program will provide $150 local grocery store gift cards to nearly seven hundred City households currently receiving SNAP. This program is a stopgap, one-time emergency allocation. Priority will be given to families and seniors at the highest risk of food insecurity following the loss of benefits. Vouchers will be distributed beginning November 5 through a combination of door-to-door outreach, walk-in community sites, and partner organization coordination.
Door-to-door distribution by City staff will occur at the Fogarty Apartments (Johnston Street), Burton Towers (Cerone Place) and Cerone Place Housing (Cerone Place). Walk-in distribution sites will be located at 123 Grand Street and the Lake Street Apartments Community Room. For more information, please visit: https://www.cityofnewburgh-ny.gov/m/NewsFlash/Home/Detail/1447
City of Middletown
The City of Middletown is offering a $50 benefit certificate to purchase eligible items. This program is open to City of Middletown residents who are being affected by recent federal SNAP funding cuts. The program is limited to 200 families. If more applications are received, recipients will be selected by lottery.
Applications open on October 29, 2025 and close at 4:00 pm on November 4, 2025. Benefit distribution begins November 5. You can apply via phone, online (Click on tab for Middletown Emergency Food Assistance Program), or in person to the Recreation office located at 393 County Route 78, Middletown, NY.
Emergency Resources Available to You
If you or someone you know is facing food insecurity, Orange County offers a variety of local food pantries, meal programs, and resources.
- Orange County Food Assistance Directory
- County-Wide Food Assistance Directory (PDF)
- Regional Food Banks
How to Stay Informed and Get Updates
The New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA) is responsible for issuing SNAP benefits. OTDA has created a webpage dedicated to providing real-time updates on the status of SNAP during the shutdown. SNAP recipients are encouraged to check this site regularly: otda.ny.gov/shutdown
OTDA will also share updates through:
- Text messages to SNAP households
- ebtEDGE and the EBT hotline
- myBenefits and NYC ACCESS HRA
- State websites and social media
How You Can Help
The disruption to SNAP funding leaves millions with uncertainty about how they will feed themselves. Here’s how you can help:
- Donate: Give non-perishable food items, money, or other essentials like diapers and toiletries to your local food bank. Food Banks say that cash donations are more helpful than giving food directly if people are able to do so, because they are able to buy a lot more food in bulk. In New York City, for example, $1 can provide up to 5 meals at Food Bank For NYC. Click here to donate to the Regional Food Bank Hudson Valley, which serves 307,000 families, children, seniors, and people with disabilities who could be at risk.
- Grocery Buddies: Some people are using social media channels to act as “grocery buddies” for local families in need. Here’s how it works: Neighbors post on social media in community groups or public forums about their willingness to be a “grocery buddy” and help a family at risk of losing SNAP benefits. The poster asks those interested to send them a private message. Together, they find a grocery solution that makes sense for both parties.
- Check with Local Businesses: Many local businesses are stepping up to provide free or discounted meals to those presenting a SNAP/EBT card. Check with your a moment to ask if there’s a way you can get involved or support these efforts.
- Volunteer: Help at local food banks, pantries, or other anti-hunger organizations to assist with distributing food to those in need.
How Cornerstone is Here for You
We understand that these times can be stressful and uncertain, but we want to assure you that Cornerstone Family Healthcare is here to help. Our team is committed to providing ongoing support, and we encourage you to reach out if you need assistance. Whether you need help with accessing food, healthcare, or other support resources, we are just a phone call away.
Updated: 11-03-25
