Mayor Mike Spano Urges Yonkers to Rally Behind Feeding Westchester as SNAP Changes Loom
On the eve of federal changes to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) eligibility, set to begin November 1, Mayor Mike Spano joined city leaders and community partners to call for a united response to rising food insecurity in Yonkers.
At a press conference surrounded by public officials, department heads, and local organizations, the mayor warned that the federal policy shift could leave many households with reduced support, heightening the risk of hunger, particularly for vulnerable families, students, and older adults. In response, he is encouraging residents to donate non-perishable foods to benefit Feeding Westchester, which provides critical assistance to thousands of families across the region. Donation boxes will be set up at key sites across the city.
“In light of these benefit changes, our community needs to stand shoulder to shoulder,” Mayor Spano said, emphasizing that Feeding Westchester plays a crucial role in keeping families fed and stable. He urged residents, business owners, and community leaders alike to contribute what they can and demonstrate Yonkers’ commitment to taking care of its own.
The mayor also called on federal lawmakers to resolve the impasse in Washington that is contributing to uncertainty for those who rely on federal programs. He stressed that delays and gridlock in the nation’s capital have real consequences in Yonkers, where residents depend on timely support and reliable services.
In Yonkers, the need is clear: of the city’s 24,000 public school students, approximately 18,000 are identified as economically disadvantaged. The Yonkers Office for the Aging reports that about 12% of older adults in the city live in poverty.
Food donation bins will be available at the following locations:
Yonkers City Hall – 40 South Broadway (Lobby)
Yonkers PAL – 127 North Broadway
Yonkers Public Library branches:
Riverfront Library – 1 Larkin Center
Grinton I. Will Library – 1500 Central Park Avenue
Crestwood Library – 16 Thompson Street
Tami Wilson, Chief Operating Officer of Feeding Westchester, noted that many families are already feeling anxious about both the loss of federal paychecks and the uncertainty around SNAP funding. She underscored how difficult it is for people to worry about their next meal, especially as the holiday season approaches, and expressed gratitude for the strong partnership with local government and community members in the fight against hunger.
Residents are encouraged to donate shelf-stable foods, including items such as canned vegetables, beans, pasta, rice, peanut butter, and whole grain cereals. Donations will be accepted through November 21, 2025.
Mayor Spano is also inviting local businesses, nonprofits, faith communities, and civic groups to join the initiative by helping collect donations or promoting the campaign. Organizations 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.
