Guilderland, NY – Assemblymember Phil Steck today presented a $25,000 state grant to the Guilderland Food Pantry, ensuring the continuation and expansion of essential programs that feed children, support families during the holidays, and meet growing community needs year round.

Even though the federal government shutdown has been temporarily resolved, families are still feeling the strain created by recent uncertainty around programs like SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program). Many households experienced disruption or concern about whether their benefits would be available, making state-level support even more important. This grant helps reinforce the local safety net and ensures reliable access to food assistance for families who need it.

The grant will support three critical initiatives:

• School Backpack Program: Nutritious, easy-to-prepare meals for approximately 120 children across five local schools.
• Holiday Meal Distribution: Seasonal meal packages for families during Thanksgiving, Christmas, and other holidays.
• General Pantry Operations: Replenishing shelves and purchasing equipment such as a pallet jack to safely manage food deliveries.

In 2024 alone, the Guilderland Food Pantry accommodated 2,358 family visits, serving more than 6,200 individuals, including 30 percent children and 16 percent seniors. The pantry distributed 56,233 meals through its regular operations and an additional 25,920 meals through the Backpack Program. Demand has increased steadily by 13 percent each year since 2020.

Assemblymember Steck emphasized the importance of strengthening local food assistance programs.

“Food insecurity affects families in every corner of our community, and the Guilderland Food Pantry continues to respond with remarkable dedication and effectiveness. This grant will help them meet growing demand, ensure children have meals they can count on, and support families through the holiday season. I am grateful for the work they do and proud to help provide resources that make a real difference,” said Assemblymember Phil Steck.

John “Mac” McDonnell, Executive Director of the Guilderland Food Pantry, expressed gratitude for the investment.

“This generous grant enables Guilderland Food Pantry to expand our Backpack Program and support even more local children with nutritious meals over the weekend. It also helps us deliver holiday meal packages and keep our pantry well stocked for all who rely on us. At the Guilderland Food Pantry, we don’t just provide food – we serve people with dignity and offer hope at a time when they need it. We’re so grateful to the Assemblymember for making this kind of compassionate care possible for our neighbors in need,” said McDonnell.

The grant strengthens the Guilderland Food Pantry’s ability to meet rising demand and ensures continued support for families who depend on consistent access to healthy, reliable food resources.