Today, Assemblymember Phil Steck held a volunteer event at The Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York. Over 30 constituents signed up to help organize and sort food products that will be distributed to those most in need.

“Because of the efforts of volunteers in our community, each year, the Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York distributes nearly 38 million meals to families in need,” said Assemblymember Steck. “It is critical that we all work to continue its mission to keep our community healthy and strong.”

The Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York collects donations from community members and the food industry to distribute to nearly 900 charitable organizations throughout 23 counties of Northeastern New York. The food provided by the Regional Food Bank helps feed over 350,000 people each month.

"We are grateful to Assemblymember Phil Steck and his team for rallying a dedicated group of constituents to sort food at the Food Bank this weekend," said Tom Nardacci, CEO of the Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York. "Community members coming together to help neighbors in need is what it's all about. Volunteers are the backbone of our organization, and we could not do our work without their efforts."

“I want to thank everyone who volunteered today for ensuring that our neighbors will not go hungry this holiday season,” said Steck. “I also would like to thank the incredible staff at the Regional Food Bank for their service to the Capital Region. Together, we will ensure that those most in need will have their fundamental right to a meal met. 

In August, Assemblymember Steck joined Assembly Speaker Heastie in announcing $500,000 in capital funding. The funding will be used for general facility improvements, including $250,000 for refrigerated docks, $100,000 for a training kitchen and cafeteria, $100,000 for ADA-compliant restrooms, and $50,000 for exterior signage and branding.

“In addition to providing capital funding to the food bank, I am a proud cosponsor of legislation that would establish a state SNAP minimum benefit program (A6214A). This would provide households receiving SNAP with an additional monthly benefit equivalent to the difference between the federal SNAP monthly benefit and one hundred dollars,” explained Steck. “This legislation and the $500,000 secured for The Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York will ensure our most vulnerable residents will not go hungry.”