Press Release: 5/1/2026

The Greater Boston Food Bank Applauds the Massachusetts House of Representatives for Prioritizing Hunger Relief in 2027 Budget

 



Boston, MA (April 30, 2026) – Today, The Greater Boston Food Bank released the following statement thanking the Massachusetts House of Representatives for prioritizing hunger-relief programs in their fiscal year 2027 budget. 



“At a time when hunger is rising and federal cuts are threatening critical nutrition programs, the Massachusetts House has passed a budget that reflects our Commonwealth’s commitment to dignity and compassion for our neighbors in need,” said Catherine D’Amato, GBFB President and CEO. “I commend House leadership for taking meaningful action to address food insecurity, and I urge the Massachusetts Senate to match the historic MEFAP investment and continue to prioritize hunger-relief programs. Together, we can empower every resident with the nutritious food they need to thrive.” 



The House budget included the following investments in hunger-relief programs: 




  • Massachusetts Emergency Food Assistance Program: $60M 

  • Department of Transitional Assistance: $108M 

  • Funding for Universal School Meals: $198M 

  • Nutrition Services Program for elders: $13.4M 

  • Healthy Incentives Program: $20M 

  • $5,000 tax credit for Massachusetts farmers and businesses to encourage food donation to food banks and pantries 


















In early April, GBFB in collaboration with Mass General Brigham, released its 6th Annual Massachusetts Food Access Report, finding that 40 percent of Massachusetts households experienced food insecurity at some point in 2025. As the report’s recommendations outline, additional funding for the state’s hunger-relief programs is critical to reducing food insecurity as the cost of living continues to rise and federal programs are cut.  



About The Greater Boston Food Bank: 

The Greater Boston Food Bank (GBFB) is the largest hunger-relief organization in New England and one of the largest food banks in the country. For nearly half a century, GBFB has fueled Eastern Massachusetts’ hunger-relief system, putting over 90 million healthy meals on tables across the region each year. Over 600 community-based pantries and other local partners in 190 cities and towns depend on GBFB to provide access to healthy food for 600,000 people every month. GBFB is committed to the belief that access to healthy food is a human right regardless of an individual’s circumstances. Through policy, partnerships, and providing free, nutritious, and culturally responsive food, GBFB is committed to addressing the root causes of food insecurity while promoting racial, gender, and economic equity in food access. Together, we have the power to end hunger here. For more information and to help us help others, visit us at GBFB.org; follow us on Facebook, X , and Instagram; or call us at 617.427.5200.