Food pantries continue to grow Upstate

The pandemic has affected the nonprofit world in countless ways, shining a light on unmet needs and underserved populations.

One arena likely changed for good is services to people struggling with food insecurity. Ten food pantries around Upstate have received tax-exempt status from the IRS in the months since covid reached the United States.

Newly exempt food organizations are located in Liverpool, Macedon, Ithaca, Lansing, Cooperstown, Stanley, Geneseo, Rochester and Lyons. Other pre-existing nonprofits have expanded programs to address grocery and meal needs.

As public health has improved, states have ended the expanded SNAP benefits begun during the pandemic. Food banks around the country have reported increased demand.