As Republican Cuts to Food Assistance Threaten Hudson Valley Families, New Yorkers Link Arms and Prepare for the Worst
As Republican Cuts to Food Assistance Threaten Hudson Valley Families, New Yorkers Link Arms and Prepare for the Worst
MOHEGAN LAKE, NEW YORK — Today, Empire State Voices held a press conference outside St. Mary’s Food Pantry in Mohegan Lake to announce a donation of canned and nonperishable goods, following Congressman Mike Lawler’s vote to cut tens of billions of dollars in funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), threatening the food security of 3.5 million New Yorkers.
Just last week, Rep. Lawler voted for a Republican budget resolution that doubled down on these measures, refusing to support a proposed alternative that would have rolled back SNAP cuts.
Congressman Mike Lawler voted to cut tens of billions of dollars in funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, threatening the food security of 3.5 million New Yorkers. | CREDIT: Empire State Voices
“I rely on SNAP benefits and have for some time,” said Mary Cohen, a former SNAP recipient and resident of Peekskill. “Unfortunately, due to recent changes in the program, thanks to Rep. Lawler’s vote, I no longer have my SNAP benefits. I am appalled that a representative from my district is the one responsible for harming this program, especially for those who truly need it. Obviously, Mr. Lawler does not think that food is something people need.”
“SNAP has been crucial for me from the start,” said Lila Hines, a SNAP recipient and resident of Peekskill. “As a member of the elderly community, it allows me to get quality meals that don't require being wealthy. This program has been a lifeline to me and so many others. I was upset when I heard that Rep. Lawler was playing games with the very benefits I rely on. SNAP is not just some political game but a life-or-death program that helps me and so many others. Rep. Lawler, do the right thing, protect SNAP, not billionaires!”
“SNAP is not just some political game but a life-or-death program that helps me and so many others.” -Lila Hines, Peekskill | CREDIT: Empire State Voices
“We’re here today because Representative Lawler decided that it was more important for him to bow down to party leadership than it was to actually fight to protect the most vulnerable residents of his district here in the Hudson Valley,” said Dylan Wheeler, NY-17 Regional Organizing Director for Empire State Voices. “Congressman Lawler voted to cut tens of billions of dollars from SNAP food assistance, putting New Yorkers like Mary and Lila in jeopardy. At a time when food prices are continuing to rise, it’s time he stands up and supports his constituents, not billionaires.”
To learn more about Empire State Voices, please reach out to press@empirestatevoices.org
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About Empire State Voices
Empire State Voices (ESV) is a multi-year campaign dedicated to amplifying the voices of everyday working New Yorkers. ESV is fighting for economic policies that make life more affordable for constituents and holding members of Congress across the state accountable when they fail to do the same.
