New York State emergency food checks will be distributed to eligible families at Rochester Public Market this weekend and every Saturday through December

Rochester, New York – Residents of Rochester have another opportunity this weekend to access fresh, healthy food through New York State’s emergency food program at the Rochester Public Market. The Market, located at 280 N. Union Street, will distribute FreshConnect Emergency Response Checks from the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The program is designed to help SNAP recipients and low-income families purchase nutritious foods during the busy holiday season.

Under this initiative, families visiting the Market will receive $20 in FreshConnect coupons for each family member present. Vouchers cannot be issued to individuals who are not on site, so families are encouraged to attend together. Eligible participants can return every Saturday through December 27 to receive additional vouchers for their households. The program provides consistent weekend support, helping families plan ahead and stretch their food budgets during the final weeks of the year.

The Market has set up two designated locations for distribution to make the process simple and efficient. Current SNAP beneficiaries can pick up vouchers at the Market’s Token Center, which is where SNAP benefits are normally redeemed. Community members who are at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty level or facing food insecurity can obtain checks by initialing a State form at a tent in D-Shed. These measures ensure that both SNAP recipients and other eligible residents can access the support they need.

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The FreshConnect emergency food vouchers can be redeemed through the end of the year, but only at the Rochester Public Market during regular shopping hours. The Market is open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6 a.m. to 1 p.m., and Saturdays from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. The vouchers are valid only for SNAP-eligible items, including fruits, vegetables, eggs, dairy products, meat and seafood, and baked goods, helping families put nutritious foods on their tables. All State-issued coupons expire on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, so recipients are encouraged to plan their visits before the end of the year.

This emergency program reflects a broader effort by the State to address food insecurity and support vulnerable communities during the winter months. By providing families with resources to purchase fresh and healthy foods, the initiative helps reduce the stress of holiday expenses while promoting better nutrition.

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City officials and Market organizers emphasize that this weekend’s distribution is part of a continuing effort to ensure all eligible residents have access to essential food resources. The program has already reached hundreds of families, and officials hope that the remaining weeks will provide additional relief to those in need.

For more information, residents can visit the Rochester Public Market or contact the Market directly to learn about eligibility and pickup locations. Families are encouraged to arrive early to ensure they receive their vouchers and take full advantage of the program while supplies last.