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More than 300 anti-hunger and nutrition-security stakeholders from across the state gathered at the Albany Capital Center on June 16, for the 2026 New York State Food Summit.
The day-long conference featured more than 70 speakers, panelists and moderators and focused on three tracks for breakout sessions: strengthening the food safety net, food as medicine, and ending hunger through action.
The keynote speaker was Mark Winne, a nationally known writer, community food activist and trainer, with more than 50 years of experience. He currently serves as Senior Advisor at the Johns Hopkins Center for a Livable Future where he works on local and state food policy.
Addressing the audience, Mark spoke about the extreme challenges being faced by private food systems in the wake of threats to SNAP, WIC and the increased gas costs by the federal government. He said that the many independent food distribution programs that have tailored their services to the needs of their communities are expressions of an independent spirit that is to be celebrated. However, the need for political support is crucial.
“As important as all your work is, none of us will achieve the goal of community food security without vigorous support from the public sector. Without the broad shoulders of public policy, and by that, I mean all levels of government, a just and sustainable food system will remain out of reach.”
The Alliance would like to thank the major sponsors for our 2026 NYS Food Summit: Broadview Federal Credit Union, CDPHP, Market 32/Price Chopper and Buffalo Center for Health Equity.
For information on the event, including photographs by Kerensa Rybak, a list of speakers and the agenda, a list of all sponsors, and more, click here: https://www.alliancehungerfreeny.org/nys-food-summit-2026
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