Brooklyn Food Pantry Faces Dire Straits After Federal Funding Cuts
In a shocking turn of events, the Campaign Against Hunger, a vital food pantry in Brooklyn, has lost over $1.3 million in federal grants aimed at supporting migrants. This significant cut comes from the Trump administration, following an allegation that the nonprofit was allegedly violating U.S. law by providing food to individuals labelled as "illegal aliens." This decision has left the pantry, which serves 17 million meals annually to over 1.5 million New Yorkers, in a precarious position.
A Nonprofit in Distress
Dr. Melony Samuels, the CEO and founder of Campaign Against Hunger, expressed the devastating impact of this funding loss: “To take that much money from any organization that does not have an endowment or a large budget is to take food out of the mouths of those that need it the most. For those that need food, it’s tough. We are in a sad, tough time.” The Campaign Against Hunger has been a beacon of hope for many in the community, and this setback raises serious concerns about its ability to continue its mission.
The Federal Shutdown: What Went Wrong?
On April 1, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) notified the Campaign Against Hunger that its grants under the Shelter and Services Program were terminated, effective immediately. This program is designed to provide resources to nonprofits that help noncitizen migrants after their release from Department of Homeland Security custody. In Fiscal Year 2024, Congress allocated $650 million to the program—including a substantial $512,000 for the Campaign Against Hunger—and another $60 million to New York City’s budget for related costs.
In a letter from FEMA’s acting administrator, Cameron Hamilton, the reasoning was clear: “The individuals receiving these services often have no legal status and are in the United States unlawfully… This, in turn, provides support for illegal aliens and is not consistent with DHS’s current priorities.”
Legal Battles and Financial Struggles
The situation escalated further when New York City received a termination notice for $188 million in grants under the same program, leading the city to initiate legal action against the federal government to reclaim those funds. Liz Garcia, a spokesperson for Mayor Eric Adams, affirmed, “We will continue working to ensure our city’s residents receive every dollar they are owed and to prevent this funding clawback from taking effect.”
As part of this turmoil, the Campaign Against Hunger was previously made aware on March 11 that its FEMA funds would be frozen pending an investigation into potential misconduct. Their pro-bono legal team is now embroiled in efforts to retrieve the lost funding.
The Cost of Hunger: A Community at Risk
As it stands, the Campaign has already spent approximately $600,000, mostly on food supplies, which may not be reimbursed. The nonprofit operates a SuperPantry in Bedford-Stuyvesant, providing food, baby formula, and clothing to families. However, due to impending financial constraints, they have had to limit distribution to once a month instead of the usual biweekly visits.
“What we had to do, which was very hard, knowing that families are hungry, we had to change the way we distribute so that the little that we had could go a long way,” Samuels explained. Historically, around 13,000 people visit the pantry each week, but the organization projects serving only half that number this month.
Community Response: A Plea for Support
As she faces mounting pressures, Dr. Samuels finds herself waking up in the early morning hours, mulling over the challenging decisions that lie ahead. “What am I going to do? Will I be able to meet the needs? How many people will be turned away?” she reflects, underscoring the urgency of the situation.
Despite recent funding, it falls short of covering the growing gaps. In addition to the FEMA grant withdrawal, over $600,000 from the state’s New York Food for New York Families program has also been rescinded, leaving the pantry scrambling for additional resources.
Across New York City, food banks like the Campaign Against Hunger are in a relentless battle to meet increasing demands amid federal funding cuts. Dr. Samuels is calling on individuals and corporations to recognize the injustices faced by her organization and take action. “We are not peripheral. We are a lifeline,” she asserts as she appeals for support to continue providing essential services to the community.
For more information on how to contribute or support the Campaign Against Hunger, check their website at Campaign Against Hunger. This food pantry represents much more than just nourishment; it is a beacon of hope, resilience, and humanity in these trying times.
Help Keep Hope Alive
As this situation unfolds, the Campaign Against Hunger stands as a critical reminder of the importance of community support. In times of uncertainty, coming together can make all the difference.
For volunteers, donators, or those simply wanting to help, your involvement matters now more than ever. Together, we can ensure that no one in our community goes hungry.
