Three major causes of food insecurity in Buffalo are economic hardship, limited food access, and transportation challenges.

Economic Challenges:

Over 45% of residents in Buffalo and Erie County live below the poverty line. This economic constraint makes it extremely difficult for many individuals to afford nutritious food.

Limited Food Access:

The East side of Buffalo, A historically under-deserved area, faces a shortage of grocery stores. And The temporary closure of Tops in 2022 it worsened access, forcing residents to travel farther for fresh food.

Transportation Challeneges:

Along with access to food Transportation barriers make it even harder for residents to reach food sources outside their neighborhoods

Food insecurity can have many different effects. 

First are Health Concerns:

Food Insecurity is linked to numerous health issues, including diabetes, hypertension, and malnutrition. Lack of access to nutritious foods makes these conditions even worse, particularly in low-income neighborhoods.

Next there is Community Strain:

Food insecurity affects more than just individual health; it places economic and psychological burdens on communities, creating a ripple effect that impacts educational and employment outcomes. 

Lastly there is increased healthcare costs:

Treating diet-related health conditions in food-insecure neighborhoods increases healthcare costs, placing further economic pressure on families and local systems.

FeedMore WNY plays a pivitol role in combating hunger across Western New York. It provides food to nearly 400 Partner agencies, including food pantries and soup kitchens.

Since 2023, the Buffalo Bills Foundation has donated over $2 million to help address food insecurity in Western NY. They also partner with other non-profits to help address child hunger, increase access to nutritious food for families, and support healthy eating in Buffalo. 

The Huddle for Hunger Program: partners with Wegmans, FeedMore WNY, and 19 other charities, hosting food drives and distributing thousands of pounds of food at events. 

Gillibrand also supports expanding meal programs, such as the Summer EBT program, to help low-income families access nutritious meals when school is not in session​.