Episcopal Charities is Addressing Food Insecurity in Westchester County

In their latest data story, "The Wide-Ranging Impacts of Food Insecurity Shape Local Action in Westchester," The New York Community Trust highlights Episcopal Charities as one of the non-profit organizations addressing the growing issue of food insecurity in Westchester County, particularly among Black and Latinx households. The statistics are alarming—nearly half of the families in Westchester live in poverty, and among those who are Black and Latinx, a quarter rely on food assistance programs.

The data not only focuses on those struggling to afford food but also emphasizes the impact on health. Families who are unable to access fresh, healthy foods often resort to cheaper, processed alternatives that are high in fat, sugar, and sodium. This reliance can lead to an increased risk of obesity, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes.

BULK BUY & FARM TO PANTRY

Episcopal Charities has empowered organizations across New York and the Hudson Valley by providing essential funding and operational support. The Bulk Buy and Farm to Pantry programs help address the growing gap between vulnerable communities and access to nutritious food as well as enable partners to provide clients dignity through choice of foods.

The Bulk Buy program provides food purchasing credits with a wholesaler to food pantries and community kitchens, enabling them to conveniently purchase food at reduced prices. This program also allows organizations to choose fresh, healthy produce and proteins, which is are not always readily available to them through food banks and other sources.

Meanwhile, the Farm to Pantry program connects grantees with local Hudson Valley farms to supply them with fresh, locally grown produce. This program is unique because it benefits both food access initiatives, which gain access to fresh produce they select, and the participating farms, which secure advance contracts for their products ahead of the growing season.

Learn more about the data driven efforts by Episcopal Charities and other partners below!

"Addressing Food Insecurity in Westchester" - The New York Community Trust - Westchester Video credit: C&A Digital / 2024