Dear Families,
We want to share an important update that may affect some members of our community. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced that November Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits will not be issued on Nov. 1, 2025.
New York State is responding by providing $30 million in emergency food aid to help residents who may be affected. Even so, nearly 3 million New Yorkers could experience an interruption in support.
Our schools are at the heart of the community, and we understand that challenges outside the classroom can affect students and families in many ways. While school meals remain free for all students, we know some households may feel the impact of this temporary suspension.
To help, we’ve gathered links to local and state resources that provide food assistance and other community supports across Albany County. Our school counselors and social workers are also available to connect families with local supports as needed.
- Call 2-1-1 or visit 211neny.org to connect with food, housing, and other support services across the Capital Region.
- The Food Pantries for the Capital District: Find local pantries and meal programs near you at thefoodpantries.org.
- Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York: Use the agency locator to find free food distribution sites in Albany County.
- Free Food Fridge Albany: Community fridges offering fresh food, open to all, no questions asked. Visit freefoodfridgealbany.com.
- Cornell Cooperative Extension Albany County: Listings of food pantries and nutrition programs across the region at albany.cce.cornell.edu.
For those who are able to support others in our community, Albany County is holding a countywide food drive to collect essential items for local families. Collection bins are now available in all Albany County buildings, including:
- 112 State Street
- Albany County Department of Social Services
- Albany County Department of Health/Mental Health
- Albany County Department of Probation
- All Department of Public Works subdivision garages
Requested items include:
- Canned proteins, soups, and vegetables
- Dried beans, fruits, and herbs
- Ground coffee, peanut butter
- Diapers and baby formula
- Menstrual products, deodorant, soap
- Shampoo, shaving cream, toothpaste
- Aluminum foil, cleaning products
- Garbage bags, napkins, paper towels
For more information, visit albanycountyny.gov.
We will continue to monitor state updates and share information as it becomes available. Together, we remain committed to caring for and strengthening our community.
Sincerely,
Daniel Mayberry
Superintendent of Schools