YONKERS – With federal changes to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) eligibility set to take effect on November 1, Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano held a press conference recently where he stood alongside public officials, city department heads, and community organizations to take a united stand against hunger. The anticipated federal policy shift may leave many families without sufficient support, increasing the risk of hunger across the community. Mayor Spano urges Yonkers residents to take action by donating non-perishable food items to Feeding Westchester, a lifeline for thousands of families across the region. To support this effort, donation boxes will be placed throughout the City of Yonkers for the collection.
“In the face of these benefit changes, we must come together as a community,” said Mayor Mike Spano. “Feeding Westchester is a lifeline for thousands of families, and now more than ever, they need our help to meet the growing demand. Whether you’re a resident, a business owner, or a community leader, you have the power to make a difference. Let’s show what Yonkers is made of.”
Mayor Spano added, “Our representatives in Washington need to act now and get back to work to resolve this – regardless of political party. You can’t play chess with people’s lives, knowing that their well-being is on the line. Here in Yonkers, we see the ripple effects – from delayed federal support to uncertainty for those who depend on vital services. Our residents expect leadership, not gridlock.”
Of the 24,000 Yonkers Public Schools students, 18,000 have been identified as economically disadvantaged. According to the Yonkers Office for the Aging, roughly 12% of older adults live in poverty.
Food donation bins will be available at the following locations throughout Yonkers:
• Yonkers City Hall – 40 South Broadway (Lobby)
• Yonkers PAL- 127 North Broadway
• All three Yonkers Public Libraries:
• Riverfront Library – 1 Larkin Center
• Grinton I. Will Library – 1500 Central Park Avenue
• Crestwood Library – 16 Thompson Street
Chief Operating Officer of Feeding Westchester, Tami Wilson, added “I can’t imagine the stress and anxiety our neighbors are feeling right now with the loss of federal paychecks and the uncertainty of SNAP benefits not being funded in just a few days. To worry about where your next meal will come from, especially as we approach a holiday centered on food, gratitude, love, and family is something no one should ever have to face. We are so fortunate to have unyielding local government support and partnership from our community in the fight against hunger.”
Residents are encouraged to donate shelf-stable items such as canned vegetables, beans, pasta, rice, peanut butter, and cereal (whole grain). Donations will be accepted through November 21, 2025.
Mayor Spano also invites local organizations, businesses, and faith communities to join this citywide initiative. Those interested in participating or hosting a donation site can contact Dr. Dwanita Crosby, Mayor’s Public and Community Affairs Assistant, at Dwanita.Crosby@yonkersny.gov.
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