Established in 1847, The New York Academy of Medicine is dedicated to ensuring everyone has the opportunity to live a healthy life. Through our original research, policy and program initiatives we provide the evidence base to address the structural and cultural barriers to good health and drive progress toward health equity. This work and our one-of-a-kind public programming are supported by our world class historical medical library and our Fellows program, a unique network of more than 2,000 experts elected by their peers from across the professions affecting health.

The New York Academy of Medicine

Food Insecurity

Health happens outside of the doctor’s office: 80% of our health is determined by how and where we live, work, learn and play. It’s no surprise that what we eat impacts our wellbeing; unfortunately, many New Yorkers struggle to afford enough nutritious food to lead healthy lives. See below for more information and resources on food security and health in NYC.

Stock footage and photography provided in part courtesy of Dissolve.

Factsheets

Policy Matters for Health: Food Insecurity, Health and the US Farm Bill in NYC

Developed to inform related policy and advocacy efforts, this fact sheet examines the effects of food security on health, with a focus on the impact of federal policy (specifically, the US Farm Bill) on food insecurity in NYC.

Policy Matters for Health: SNAP and WIC

This fact sheet provides an overview of the many ways that government programs to reduce hunger and food insecurity contribute to the health of individuals and families, as well as the stability of the local economy