New York State Connects Local Farmers to Food Pantries

Nourish New York program helps get fresh produce to those in need

Apr. 14, 2026 at 2:01am

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An abstract, impressionistic photograph of a farmer's market scene, with blurred, colorful produce and a soft, hazy background, conveying the mood of a community-driven food assistance initiative.A state program connects local farmers with food banks, ensuring fresh, nutritious produce reaches those in need.Middletown Today

Programs like Nourish New York are helping local farmers in New York connect their fresh produce to consumers through food banks such as the Regional Food Bank, local officials say. The arrangements benefit both farmers and those in need of food assistance.

Why it matters

The Nourish New York initiative aims to support local agriculture while also providing fresh, nutritious food to food-insecure communities. This mutually beneficial partnership helps sustain small farms and ensures access to healthy options for those relying on food pantries.

The details

Through the Nourish New York program, the state is facilitating direct connections between local farmers and regional food banks. This allows farmers to sell their surplus produce, which is then distributed to those in need through the food pantry network.

  • The Nourish New York program was launched in 2020 to address food insecurity during the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • The partnership between local farmers and the Regional Food Bank has been ongoing since the program's inception.

The players

Nourish New York

A state-run initiative that connects local farmers with food banks to provide fresh produce to those in need.

Regional Food Bank

A food bank serving communities in New York, which distributes the fresh produce from local farmers through its network of food pantries.

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What they’re saying

“Programs like Nourish New York are a win-win, helping our local farmers while also ensuring families have access to nutritious food.”

— Local Official

What’s next

The Nourish New York program is expected to continue expanding its partnerships with local farmers and food banks to reach more communities in need.

The takeaway

By facilitating connections between local agriculture and food assistance programs, initiatives like Nourish New York are able to support small farms while also improving access to fresh, healthy food for those experiencing food insecurity.