Food Policy Briefs

Throughout my career as a food justice advocate, particularly in support of children, I’ve come to understand that many other vulnerable populations also lack access to nutritious food. One such overlooked group is the incarcerated population, often deemed undeserving of basic rights. While many states have recognized the need for formerly incarcerated individuals to have access to SNAP benefits, some states continue to deny this access. My policy brief aims to highlight these disparities and advocate for change.

My second policy brief addresses the safety and well-being of food delivery workers. As a native New Yorker, I’m familiar with the convenience of food delivery, but my awareness of delivery workers' rights deepened during the pandemic, when these essential workers became a lifeline for many. Issues such as lack of access to restrooms during shifts, unfair wages, and the physical dangers they face on the job require more attention. While New York City has passed legislation to protect these workers—many of whom are undocumented immigrants—there is still much more to be done to safeguard their rights and support them as vital members of our community.