Empire State Voices

10/14/2026

Thank you to everyone who joined us in Pleasantville this weekend to discuss the future of Medicare and Medicaid. With 79,500 children and 20,600 seniors in NY-17 relying on these programs, access to healthcare matters. With open enrollment just around the corner, we’re working to bridge the information gap and help keep our Hudson Valley communities informed about their healthcare options.

This is just the first of many conversations across the Hudson Valley, so make sure to subscribe to our Substack to learn about the next one near you: https://substack.com/

10/13/2026

When the grocery budget gets tighter, knowing where to turn can make all the difference. As SNAP changes take effect in New York, we’ve put together a Hudson Valley resource for anyone looking for a little extra help stretching their food budget.

Our new guide includes food pantry resources in Dutchess, Putnam, Rockland, and Westchester counties, along with affordable, flexible recipes and a Budget Bytes grocery guide.

Whether you need help finding a local pantry, want ideas for making a few ingredients stretch, or know someone who could use these resources, we hope this guide helps.

Read the full guide: https://empirestatevoices.substack.com/p/stretching-the-grocery-budget-hudson

Save this post and share it with a neighbor who might find it useful. 💛

10/11/2026

Join us live as we discuss the current state of healthcare from the Mount Pleasant Public Library.

10/11/2026

Join us today at 2 pm at the Mount Pleasant Public Library for the first in our series of community conversations about the state of Medicare and Medicaid. We’ll share what’s changing, how rising healthcare costs may impact New Yorkers, answer your questions, and help you understand what to expect as the 2027 open enrollment period approaches.

Bring your questions, bring a neighbor, and RSVP today: https://www.mobilize.us/empirestatevoices/event/1049622/?utm_source=socialmedia

10/11/2026

Rising costs and changing policies are affecting families across the Hudson Valley. Stay informed on the issues shaping New York communities and join the conversation.

Subscribe to Empire State Voices for updates:
https://substack.com/ 📩

We advocate for economic policies that make life more affordable for hardworking New Yorkers and hold our representatives accountable when they fail to do so.

10/09/2026

SNAP’s funding model has changed, and states are now shouldering much more of the cost. As of 10/01, states began covering 75% of SNAP’s administrative expenses as federal support shrinks. The change could mean budget cuts, big changes to schools, or even states leaving the program. Read NPR’s full report:

States will start to pay a larger share of the bill to run the food assistance program, as federal funding for operational costs shrinks.

10/07/2026

⚡ National Energy Efficiency Day is tomorrow!

Spiking energy costs make saving where you can more important than ever. The good news? Small changes can make a difference.

From switching to LEDs and adjusting your thermostat to sealing drafts and washing clothes in cold water, there are simple ways to cut energy waste and lower your bills.

New York homeowners can also get a no-cost virtual Home Energy Assessment through NYSERDA.

Read more tips for saving energy and money: https://empirestatevoices.substack.com/p/saving-energy-saving-money-tips-for

10/06/2026

Tune in! Our Executive Director is speaking today at the Protect Our Care rally about the pressure that Hudson Valley families are facing, from spiking grocery and gas prices to healthcare systems.

10/04/2026

As winter approaches, people across the Hudson Valley may feel the impact of spiking energy costs, from higher heating bills to more expensive gas and travel. Higher fuel costs could also drive up prices for everyday goods and services, adding another challenge for household budgets.

Read more here: https://www.nbcnews.com/business/economy/expensive-winter-heating-oil-gas-travel-rcna599282 ⛽

Sky-high airfare, rising gas prices and soaring home heating costs are all squeezing consumers heading into the holiday season.

10/01/2026

Join us at Mount Pleasant Public Library on Sunday, October 11, 2026, for an important community conversation about the future of healthcare. Come hear what’s changing, get your questions answered, and learn what to expect as 2027 open enrollment approaches.

Bring your questions, bring a neighbor, and RSVP today: https://www.mobilize.us/empirestatevoices/event/1049622/?utm_source=socialmedia