The Breakfast Club INTERVIEW: Leslie Gordon & Zac Hall Talk NYC Food Bank Programs, Feeding Families + More
Dec 2, 2025
Leslie Gordon and Zac Hall dive into NYC's hunger crisis, highlighting the Food Bank's ambitious goal of 50 million meals. They discuss who faces food insecurity, with a focus on working families and seniors. The impact of the government shutdown on SNAP benefits reveals the urgent need for support. They advocate for higher wages and affordable housing as long-term solutions. Listeners learn about accessible food services and the roles of dietitians in promoting nutritious options, all while sharing poignant stories that motivate their work.
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Scale Of Food Insecurity In NYC
- About 20% of New Yorkers face food insecurity, equal to roughly 1.3 million people across the city.
- Food Bank NYC launched a campaign to raise 50 million meals by year-end to meet that scale of need.
Hunger Is Not Just Homelessness
- Food-insecure people are often working neighbors, not just homeless individuals on the street.
- High living costs push teachers, postal workers, and other professionals into food lines despite employment.
Recipients Becoming Volunteers
- A couple who relied on pantries during a shutdown returned to volunteer after receiving groceries for Thanksgiving.
- They immediately asked, “Put me to work,” showing gratitude turning into service.