New legislation is introduced by U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand is aiming to end food deserts across the state.

Fifty million dollars in federal funding would work to incentivize grocery stores to build new locations in underserved communities. It also helps those in food deserts better serve the public.

The freezers are being stocked at a grocery store that is playing a big role in its communitiy.  

Non-profit Greater Good Grocery in Binghamton first opened three years ago, with the goal of addressing food insecurity in an area that hadn’t had a grocery store in more than 20 years.

"It means so much to us. Just here in a small store, we are really impacting and really making a difference, not only on the north side of Binghamton, but in the city of Binghamton and Broome County as a whole," said Kinya Middleton, the general manager of Greater Good Grocery Store.

Greater Good Grocery is for anyone, but operates a bit differently from typical supermarkets. Prices are kept lower, SNAP benefits are often doubled, and the profits go right back into the community.

What You Need To Know

  • Senator Kirsten Gillibrand is asking for $50 million in federal funding to incentivize grocery stores to bring locations to underserved communities

  • It would also allow stores like Greater Good to apply for grants and loans to purchase more product and help keep prices low

  • The last day of every month, The Greater Good Grocery Store offers a Free Produce Day where shoppers can pick up fresh, healthy fruits and vegetables

"We have made a big transition. We started off probably would like two shelves and every day we're just growing. We're making sure that people have access. We do a lot of great programs here," said Middleton.

Middleton is now hoping to see that mission go even further, thanks to Gillibrand's proposed legislation. It would also allow stores like Greater Good to apply for grants and loans to purchase more product and help keep prices low.

"It expands the budget of someone, whereas during the last week of the month they might go to a food pantry. If we can make things affordable and expand it, expand it more. It'll definitely stretches out for a family,” said Middleton.

Food deserts are a major problem across New York. A state audit released last year found one in 10 households experienced food insecurity at one point between 2019 and 2021. Middleton is hoping this legislation could help change that in 2024.

“We know the effects and we see it. And I think when we think of food insecurity, you just think of food. But there's so many other things that play along with food insecurity. So if we can help them here at the Greater Good grocery store, just with a little bit of that, we are forever grateful," said Middleton.

The last day of every month, The Greater Good offers a free produce day where shoppers can pick up fresh, healthy fruits and vegetables.

Broome County took another hit in its fight against food insecurity. The Weis Market on Binghamton’s South side announced it would be closing, leaving yet another void in an area in need.