With the ongoing federal shutdown threatening to halt Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits beginning November 1st, Rockland County officials are calling on residents to step up and help those in need. The County of Rockland, together with the Towns of Clarkstown, Haverstraw, Orangetown, Ramapo, and Stony Point, has launched a countywide food drive and is urging monetary donations to local food pantries to offset the expected surge in demand.
Approximately 19,000 Rockland households — including more than 54,000 children and adults — rely on SNAP assistance. If federal benefits lapse, local pantries will face an unprecedented strain. Donations will go to Rockland Community Against Hunger, a network representing over 40 food pantries across the county, which will coordinate distribution based on need and impact.
According to the Regional Food Bank, every $1 donated can purchase $8–$10 worth of food, thanks to access to donated or discounted goods — meaning monetary contributions can go much further than traditional retail purchases.
“Food pantry purchasing power is significantly stronger than retail,” the county said in a statement. “We urge all Rocklanders to contribute — every dollar makes a difference.”
How to Help
Residents and businesses can make monetary donations here (via Rockland Community Against Hunger), or drop off non-perishable food items at one of the following collection sites:
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Robert L. Yeager Health Center (Building A Lobby) – 50 Sanatorium Road, Pomona
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Allison-Parris County Office Building – 11 New Hempstead Rd., New City
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Town of Clarkstown Town Hall – 10 Maple Ave., New City
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Town of Haverstraw Town Hall – 1 Rosman Road, Garnerville
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Town of Orangetown Town Hall – 26 W. Orangeburg Rd., Orangeburg
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Town of Ramapo Town Hall – 237 Route 59, Suffern/Airmont
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Town of Stony Point Town Hall – 74 East Main Street, Stony Point
A full list of suggested donation items is available here.
In addition, volunteers are needed to assist with sorting food, preparing packages, and transporting donations. Those interested can sign up to volunteer here.
For those seeking immediate food assistance, resources can be found at rocklandhunger.org/find-food.