Governor Kathy Hochul on Friday said New Yokers in need can obtain $20 worth of Fresh Connect Checks at local farmers' market each week through the end of the year or until supplies last.
Through the FreshConnect Emergency Response Program, the state is partnering with eligible farmers’ markets to distribute $20 worth of FreshConnect Checks each week to New Yorkers in need to spend on fresh foods.
“While Washington Republicans continue to slash benefits for those who need them most, my administration has been focused on just the opposite," Hochul said in a statement. “This emergency expansion of our FreshConnect program is one component of New York’s multi-faceted response to the federal government’s slashing of benefits, as we continue to do everything in our power to ensure that New Yorkers do not go hungry this holiday season."
Administered by the Department of Agriculture and Markets, the FreshConnect program typically provides $2 in FreshConnect Checks for every $2 spent as part of the SNAP program, providing a dollar-for-dollar match that allows families to purchase more SNAP-eligible food items. The FreshConnect Emergency Response Program announced last week does not require a SNAP dollar match.
Consumers may use their FreshConnect Emergency Response Checks to purchase SNAP-eligible food items, including fruits, vegetables, meats, fish, poultry, bread, honey, sauces, dairy products, pasta, baked goods and more. Checks may be spent in conjunction with any other form of payment, including SNAP EBT or tokens and other nutrition incentive coupons.
All GrowNYC greenmarkets are participating in the program. For Brooklyn locations, click here.
Additional participating markets can be found at agriculture.ny.gov/market-
New Yorkers interested in receiving this benefit should visit participating markets’ management or information table for details on how to take part. Each participating market has received a limited number of coupons to distribute, officials said.
