Governor Kathy Hochul has announced $8.3 million in grants for 59 food banks and emergency food assistance organizations across New York, supporting improvements to storage, distribution and facilities, according to a report published Monday by the Times Union.
The awards come through the New York Providing Local Access to Essential Sustenance program, known as NY PLATES. Established in the state’s fiscal year 2026–27 budget with $10 million, the program finances infrastructure projects designed to strengthen the emergency food network.
Eligible projects include building renovations, refrigeration systems, freezers and food transport vehicles. These investments are intended to help organizations safely store perishable products and move food more efficiently to communities in need. The Dormitory Authority of the State of New York administers the program in partnership with the state Department of Health.
Among the recipients, the Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York will receive $400,000 for roof, refrigeration and storage improvements. Capital Roots, based in Troy, will receive nearly $121,000 for equipment, the Times Union reported.
The funding arrives as food relief organizations face sustained pressure. In a joint statement responding to Hochul’s 2026 policy agenda, hunger relief groups warned that demand had already risen sharply before further federal reductions to nutrition assistance took effect. They welcomed NY PLATES as support for the facilities needed to serve more households.
By focusing on equipment and infrastructure, the program aims to expand the capacity of local providers and improve the reliability of emergency food distribution across the state.
