Ag & Markets wants to connect farmers new purchasing opportunities

Staff Reports Posted 1 May 2020 at 10:03 am

State looking to purchase surplus products for food banks

ALBANY – The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets, in coordination with its partners, is reaching out to New York producers that have surplus agricultural products as a result of COVID-19-related supply chain disruptions.

The Department is working to connect affected farmers to potential new purchasing opportunities through various institutions, such as food banks, retailers and more.

Governor Cuomo has made a commitment to using local foods to support the emergency food system. Cuomo on Monday announced a $25 million “Nourish New York” initiative where the state will buy farm products and direct that food to food banks that are seeing increased demand during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The governor also welcomed philanthropists to step forward and buy produce and milk from upstate farmers that could be given to people through food banks.

“We’re seeing a tremendous demand in food banks,” Cuomo said on Monday. “The numbers are very, very high, and we need to address it.”

Ag & Markets is looking to connect producers to food banks and those in need. Farmers and agricultural producers with surplus product are asked to contact Ag & Markets and give their name, contact information, and the type of product(s) in surplus.

Farmers should send that information to Lindsey McMahon at lindsey.mcmahon@agriculture.ny.gov.  Ag & Markets wants the information by Monday, May 4.

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