A new poll commissioned by No Kid Hungry New York paints a stark picture: as the cost of food continues to rise, more New Yorkers are struggling to make ends meet. A staggering 86% of respondents say food prices are increasing faster than their income—showing no improvement from last year’s crisis.
The impact is undeniable. Families across the state are being forced to make impossible choices just to put food on the table.
One mother from the Bronx shared, “Being on a budget, the rise in food costs strains my pockets. There are times where I have to use my credit card just to make sure there’s enough food in the house for me and my son until my next paycheck.” She is not alone. More than half (53%) of New Yorkers report their debt has increased over the past year due to food costs. The numbers are even higher for families with children (62%). Hispanic families were amongst those hardest hit – 73% have accrued debt due to food costs over the past year.
Beyond financial strain, food insecurity is taking a serious toll on New Yorkers’ health. More than half (52%) of respondents say their physical health has suffered due to the cost of food, and an even greater number (63%) report negative effects on their mental health.
“We aren’t eating as healthy. Sometimes us parents skip a meal or two, or we don’t put a lot on our plates just so our kids can be full. We have to eliminate some fruits and veggies because they cost too much,” says a mother from Lewis county.
Despite these challenges, there is broad agreement that food assistance programs make a difference. A majority (60%) believe grocery benefit programs like SNAP, WIC, and Summer EBT have a positive impact on local economies. Even more—70%—say these programs strengthen the state’s economy as well as local businesses in their area (76%).
New Yorkers are also clear about what they don’t want: cuts to food assistance. A majority (62%) oppose reducing funding for programs that help families put food on the table. And nearly all New Yorkers (96%) agree that child hunger should not exist in our state, while 91% believe ending childhood hunger should be a bipartisan priority.
These numbers send a powerful message: food insecurity is a growing crisis, and families need real solutions. Expanding proven programs like SNAP and no-cost school meals can help ensure every child in New York has the nutrition they need to thrive.
Ending childhood hunger isn’t just possible—it’s necessary. Together, we can make sure no kid in New York goes hungry.
Learn how you can take action here.