Local leaders and community advocates rally in Red Hook to address EBT theft
In the Red Hook neighborhood alone, the Red Hook Initiative has filed at least 85 claims for stolen benefits since federal reimbursements ended in 2024.
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Elected officials joined community advocates in Red Hook to rally against the surge of EBT theft.
It’s an issue News 12 has covered for months, and now local leaders say they’re proposing solutions.
In the Red Hook neighborhood alone, the Red Hook Initiative has filed at least 85 claims for stolen benefits since federal reimbursements ended in 2024. That’s more than $40,000 residents won't get back.
“The most frustrating part is knowing that the solution is in our reach,” said Assemblymember Marcela Mitaynes, of District 51. “We just need to push our representatives to make sure this is a priority.”
Brooklyn Democratic leaders involved in these efforts are pushing for $50 million toward creating a more permanent compensation fund for victims of fraud. Also, $40 million to fund new SNAP cards with a chip for all New Yorkers.
“The chip card would make sure that it's 87% more secure so we can address the problem at its root,” said Assemblymember Jessica Gonzáles-Rojas, of District 34.
It will take a combined effort of all sides to protect EBT.
