Empire State Voices

08/22/2026

Grocery bills are feeling the squeeze. But there are ways to fight back: skip tariff-heavy canned goods, choose domestic staples, and rethink pricey proteins. Budget Bytes breaks down what’s driving costs and practical swaps to keep your grocery bill in check. Read the guide: https://www.budgetbytes.com/the-almost-tariff-proof-grocery-guide/ 👇

Why are groceries getting more expensive? Explore how tariffs affect food prices and find strategies to stretch your grocery budget further.

08/21/2026

Rep. Mike Lawler voted to cut Medicaid and enact new requirements that could put healthcare at risk for cancer patients and survivors.

Hudson Valley cancer survivors are telling him — and all of us — what’s at stake.

Swipe through to read their stories, check out our newest blog to learn more, and then call Rep. Lawler and ask him to protect Medicaid and access to care: (845) 201-2060

https://empirestatevoices.substack.com/p/when-medicaid-is-cut-cancer-patients 📲

08/20/2026

🚨 The Mike Spike includes your energy bill!

Join Empire State Voices, Food & Water Watch, and neighbors for an Energy Costs Rally to tell Rep. Lawler it’s time he answers for his votes and fights for the Hudson Valley.

RSVP today: https://www.mobilize.us/empirestatevoices/event/1012841/

08/17/2026

ICYMI: Last week, Hudson Valley seniors, community leaders, faith leaders, and elected officials came together for our Protect Seniors’ Pockets event to discuss rising costs and how to protect critical programs like Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, and SNAP.

Senator Pete Harckham spoke about the importance of keeping seniors informed and engaged as federal policies impact everyday life.

Want to join us at future events? Subscribe for event invites and more: https://empirestatevoices.substack.com/

08/15/2026

On the 91st anniversary of Social Security, Hudson Valley seniors, elected officials, faith leaders, and community members came together for our Protect Seniors’ Pockets events.

We shared a meal, played games, heard from local leaders, and listened to seniors about what Social Security means to them.

We are also proud to donate $700+ in non-perishable food to NY-17 seniors alongside Unrig Our Economy.

It was a powerful reminder that protecting our seniors starts with showing up for them.

08/14/2026

The July jobs report is a warning sign for the U.S. economy.

For Hudson Valley families, economic uncertainty can shape everyday decisions and long-term plans.

Read the full NBC News report: https://www.nbcnews.com/business/economy/july-2026-jobs-report-rcna591138

08/11/2026

Seniors, join us Thursday, August 13, for an evening of action focused on the rising costs impacting seniors and families. Come enjoy food, games, special guests, and a community conversation featuring four key speakers.

If rising costs have affected your household, we want to hear from you. Your experience can help put a real face on the challenges seniors are facing.

:round_pushpin: River Pointe Community Room, 100 Ringgold Street, Peekskill, NY
:date: Thursday, August 13
:alarm_clock: 6 – 8 PM

Come be part of the conversation. Let’s work together to protect seniors’ pockets!

RSVP today: https://www.mobilize.us/goppricetag/event/1004786/

08/10/2026

Last week, we brought The Mike Spike to the Hudson Valley with a banner drop over 287 as Congress headed into August recess.

Because rising costs aren’t just numbers on a chart. They show up at the grocery store, at the gas pump, at the doctor’s office, and in monthly bills.

Our latest Substack from Courtney Fields, Executive Director of Empire State Voices, breaks down what’s behind those rising costs, examines Rep. Mike Lawler’s votes and supported policies, and shares what Hudson Valley residents are experiencing firsthand.

Check out our banner drop, then read the full story: https://empirestatevoices.substack.com/p/the-mike-spike-new-yorkers-are-paying

08/09/2026

Hudson Valley families are feeling the squeeze as back-to-school costs continue to climb. Parents expect to spend an average of $890 per child this year, with rising prices for school supplies and other back-to-school essentials driving up the total.

Over two-thirds of parents say back-to-school shopping is more expensive this year.

08/08/2026

Protect Seniors’ Pockets! Join Us and Unrig Our Economy at River Pointe Community Room on August 13 for an evening of action for seniors featuring food, special guests, games, and a community conversation about how House Republicans are making everything more expensive for seniors.

If you're 55+, we'd love for you to RSVP today: https://www.mobilize.us/goppricetag/event/1004786/