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As the federal government shutdown continues, M.S. 50, a school in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, is intensifying its efforts to combat food insecurity. Principal Benjamin Honoroff, who has led the school for 11 years, emphasizes the increased need due to the suspension of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits. The school has long been committed to addressing hunger through a community-focused approach.
M.S. 50 uses federal Title I funds to provide food vouchers for local restaurants and subsidize grocery deliveries through Fresh Direct. Additionally, the school partners with local food banks and benefits from active fundraising by the PTA. The school serves 415 students and embraces a community model that supports both students and their families.
In response to the increased demand, the school has partnered with El Puente, a community organization, to better understand and address the specific needs of families. Honoroff stated, "Doubling down on the work that we have already done around food insecurity, we have many families that receive SNAP, and if that gets disrupted, that will lead to further hardship" (PIX11).
The need for these initiatives has intensified since the federal SNAP program benefits were suspended due to the ongoing government shutdown. Former New York City Mayor Eric Adams announced $15 million in emergency food assistance funding to help affected families (Brooklyn Eagle).
The New York City Department of Education supports these efforts, stating, "Children cannot learn, grow, and thrive on empty stomachs, and we are proud to provide a free, nutritious breakfast and lunch for every student, in every school, every single day" (Yahoo News).
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