Children's Aid children at East Harlem Center

What Do You Know About Poverty in NYC?

Poverty and Food

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66%

Jump in poverty

From 2021 to 2022, the child poverty rate jumped by 66% – rising from 15% to 25%.*

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1 in 4

Children in poverty

1 in 4 children live in poverty in New York City.*

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60%

Increase visits

Since 2019, average monthly visits to soup kitchens and food pantries are up by 60% across New York City.*

The stats above illustrate why the work we do at Children’s Aid is so crucial. We believe all children have limitless potential. But for those surrounded by poverty and instability, barriers to success can seem infinitely higher. For 170 years, we’ve helped children and families thrive by providing comprehensive supports.

Our staff – teachers and social workers, coaches and healthcare providers – know what it takes to ensure children grow up healthy and strong. Read more about our work and how we’re making an impact for the 50,000 children, youth, and families we serve.

How We Tackle Food Insecurity

Learn More About Our Work

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Do you want to join us in making a meaningful impact in the lives of 50,000 children, youth, and families in New York City? Here are ways you can support our mission:

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Your donation can ensure that children affected by poverty have the opportunity to reach their full potential.

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Did you take our quiz on poverty in NYC?

See below for the correct answers:

In 2022, what percentage of New York City children were living in poverty?

25%: According to the Annual Poverty Tracker Report released by Robin Hood, the share of children living in poverty in New York City increased from 15% to 25% from 2021 to 2022. Pandemic-era government support expired and soon after, poverty rates rose.

What is the supplemental poverty threshold for a family of four in New York City?

$43,890: The least amount of income a family needs to meet their basic needs in New York City is $43,890. The supplemental income poverty threshold is based on spending on food, clothing, shelter, and utilities. Tax credits and noncash benefits are also counted as income.

What percentage of New Yorkers are facing food insecurity?

14.6%: According to data from Feeding America, 14.6% or over 1.2 million New Yorkers experience food insecurity.

Which borough experiences the highest rates of food insecurity?

Bronx: The Bronx reported the highest rates of food insecurity in 2022, with 19.7% or 281,040 residents experiencing food insecurity.

* Poverty Tracker Research Group at Columbia University (2024). The State of Poverty and Disadvantage in New York City, Volume 6. Robin Hood.