Government

Rockland County Launches $2 Million Emergency Food Plan Amid Federal SNAP Lapse

Published

9 months ago

November 9, 2025

The County of Rockland has approved a $2 million Emergency Food Assistance Plan with the Regional Food Bank to help families impacted by the federal SNAP benefit lapse caused by the ongoing government shutdown.

More than 19,000 Rockland households, including over 54,000 children and adults, are affected and now face increased food insecurity.

The plan will roll out in two phases through November 30. The first phase, now underway, includes $700,000 in grants to 43 local food pantries and $300,000 for countywide food distribution events. A second phase will follow if the shutdown continues.

At the first event, held November 6 at Clover Stadium in Pomona, volunteers distributed 20,000 pounds of food—enough to serve about 375 households. More events will be announced in the coming days, and the Regional Food Bank is seeking volunteers to help with future distributions.

The second phase, set to activate November 15–30 if the federal shutdown continues, will extend the same structure to sustain support through the end of the month.

“We’re grateful for the outpouring of support from Rockland County officials and residents,” said Regional Food Bank CEO Tom Nardacci.

Government

Turn Food Scraps Into Compost with Rockland’s Recycling Program

Published

1 week ago

July 18, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

After a summer barbecue or family gathering, those leftover food scraps don’t have to end up in the trash.

Rockland County is encouraging residents to join its Food Scrap Recycling Program, which diverts food waste from landfills and turns it into nutrient-rich compost.

Food scraps that end up in landfills produce methane, a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change. By recycling items such as fruit and vegetable peels, coffee grounds, eggshells, and other food waste, residents can help reduce emissions while creating a valuable resource for agriculture and landscaping.

County officials say the program is easy to join and can make a meaningful difference in reducing a household’s environmental footprint.

From banana peels and watermelon rinds to leftovers from backyard cookouts, every bit of food waste recycled helps keep organic material out of landfills.

Residents interested in participating can learn more and sign up through the county’s Food Scrap Recycling Program.

Government

Rockland Health Department Issues Hudson River Recreation Update

Published

3 weeks ago

July 5, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

The Rockland County Department of Health is advising residents that the Yonkers Wastewater Recovery Facility has been fully operational since July 3, while reminding the public to follow state health guidance when recreating on the Hudson River this holiday weekend.

According to the department, the New York State Department of Health and the Department of Environmental Conservation have been coordinating with Rockland and Westchester counties, New York City, and other partner agencies following the wastewater system disruption.

Health officials said residents should not drink untreated Hudson River water under any circumstances. They also advise against swimming or participating in activities that involve full-body immersion at beaches that remain closed.

However, officials said recreational activities involving partial contact with the water—including boating, kayaking, and fishing—are considered safe. Anglers are encouraged to review New York State Department of Health fish consumption advisories before eating their catch.

The Rockland County Department of Health said it will continue working with state and local agencies to monitor conditions.