Last night, the County Legislature presented the Schenectady County Food Council with a proclamation recognizing their dedication to addressing food insecurity and working to build a stronger, healthier, and more equitable, sustainable, and community-driven food system in the County.
The Legislature also presented certificates to 11 residents who completed the Food Council’s Community Advocates Program in 2024. The program was created to empower residents with lived experience in food insecurity by equipping them with public speaking and advocacy skills.
“We’re proud to recognize the Schenectady County Food Council for their unwavering commitment to addressing food insecurity and creating lasting change in our community,” said Schenectady County Legislator Michelle Ostrelich, Chair of the Health, Housing & Human Services Committee. “The work they’re doing, from advocating for policy changes to empowering residents through the Community Advocates Program, is helping to build a stronger, healthier, and more equitable food system for all. These efforts reflect the power of community-driven solutions and the difference we can make when we come together to support those in need.”
“Since 2019, the number of people accessing emergency food programs across New York State has grown by 70%, a horrifying statistic that reflects our experience in Schenectady County,” said Rev. Dustin Longmire, Co-Chair of the Schenectady Food Council Advocacy and Empowerment Working Group. “Simply put, we are experiencing the greatest food affordability crisis since the Great Depression. Given that context, I am so thankful for the leadership of our eleven amazing Community Advocates Program graduates who have identified our advocacy priorities as the Schenectady County Food Council and led our efforts to address nutrition security both as a county and across New York State.”
Schenectady County Food Council was officially launched in the summer of 2023 as a collaborative group dedicated to enhancing food security, supporting local agriculture, and ensuring equitable access to nourishing food in Schenectady County.