#United States #Buffalo #Nutrition Incentive #SNAP Shoppers #Double Up Food Bucks

Major Expansion of Nutrition Incentive Program in New York

The Field & Fork Network, a Buffalo-based nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing access to healthy food for low-income individuals in New York, made an important announcement on August 5, 2025. This marks the largest single expansion of the Double Up Food Bucks NY (DUFBNY) program to date. In collaboration with Northeast Grocery, this initiative significantly increases the number of grocery stores participating in the program, thereby supporting food-insecure families in rural regions.

Details of the Expansion

The recent collaboration with Northeast Grocery has extended the reach of the Double Up Food Bucks program to 48 new stores across three grocery chains—Market 32, Price Chopper, and Tops Friendly Markets—spanning a total of 34 counties, of which 16 were previously not served. This expansion provides SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) shoppers with a crucial dollar-for-dollar match, up to $20 daily, for fresh produce purchases, allowing recipients to maximize their buying power and meet their nutritional needs.

Lisa French, CEO of Field & Fork Network, emphasized the importance of this collaboration, stating how public-private partnerships can effectively translate policy goals into community-level solutions. "This expansion is a vivid example of what can be achieved when different sectors work together to ensure that families have access to nutritious food," she highlighted.

Addressing Food Insecurity with Local Solutions

The decision to prioritize rural and micropolitan areas, particularly in regions such as the Finger Lakes, Mohawk Valley, Southern Tier, and Lower Adirondack, is instrumental given the limited access to SNAP-accepting stores that provide fresh and affordable produce. The latest figures indicate that approximately 62,000 households and 107,000 individuals utilizing SNAP now have this valuable opportunity to purchase twice as many fruits and vegetables.

Barbara C. Guinn, Commissioner of the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, commended the initiative, noting that it empowers thousands of SNAP recipients, helping them afford healthier food choices for their families. The program underlines New York's ongoing commitment to combat food insecurity while promoting access to locally grown, nutritious food.

A Seamless Shopping Experience for SNAP Participants

To facilitate the use of the DUFBNY program, the grocery chains involved have designed a straightforward process for SNAP shoppers. Upon checkout, customers automatically receive the matching dollar amount as a printed coupon, without any additional steps or registration. This user-friendly approach ensures high participation and seamless integration into existing shopping habits. Since beginning participation in 2023, Northeast Grocery has quickly grown from just two locations to 77 stores across 39 counties that now accept DUFBNY.

Investing in Local Communities

John Persons, CEO of Northeast Grocery, reaffirmed the commitment to ensure that fresh produce is accessible regardless of geographical constraints. This expansion is not just about enhancing the existing supply but promoting a sustainable, health-oriented lifestyle for consumers. Since the inception of the partnership between Field & Fork Network and Northeast Grocery, over $835,000 has been matched in fresh produce purchases, resulting in an economic impact exceeding $1.16 million.

Senator Michelle Hinchey also voiced her support for the program, stating it reflects a broader vision of treating food as essential healthcare while advocating for an equitable food landscape in New York.

This expansion of the DUFBNY program, through a conscientious partnership approach, is expected to elevate the economic activity in local communities while simultaneously increasing sales for local farmers. Currently, NEC aims to leverage its connections with over 250 farms across New York, ensuring farm-fresh produce is available at local stores.

Future Outlook

Field & Fork Network and Northeast Grocery are collaborating on a comprehensive awareness campaign to inform eligible SNAP shoppers about the expanded DUFBNY offerings. Outreach efforts encompass community partnerships, online platforms, in-store materials, and ongoing public relations initiatives throughout the summer season.

As of now, the DUFBNY program operates in over 320 locations across New York State, including farmers' markets, mobile markets, and various grocery chains. It significantly reaches 53 of New York's 57 counties, covering 85% of the state. This program, powered by support from the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture, aims to bridge the nutritional gap while ensuring healthy living is accessible to all New Yorkers.

For more information on this program, visit Field & Fork Network and Double Up NYS.