New York State's food banks are asking state leaders for $16 million to address a worsening hunger problem.
Michael Berg, director of Family of Woodstock, said Monday requests for food are up 20 percent each year for the last few years. Meanwhile, a coalition of 53 food pantries in the Albany area reports the highest demand in its 36-year history.
Hunger Action Network director Susan Zimet said the $16 million request is small considering the state has billions of dollars in uncommitted money to spend.
Zimet said most people in need of help are employed, but struggling to make ends meet.
She says she hopes lawmakers act before they adjourn later this month.
Copyright 2015 The Associated Press.
