ALBANY -- Anti-poverty advocates say 10 years of welfare reform in New York hasn't done enough to help poor families who most need help. In a report released Friday, the Hunger Action Network finds that the poverty rate in New York is above the national average, and the state's emphasis on welfare-to-work programs hasn't helped many people escape poverty. While many eventually find jobs, they frequently have wages that fall below the federal poverty line.
The report also says that demand for emergency food and food stamps has continued to grow. The group is calling on the state to increase spending on transitional jobs and wage subsidy programs.The state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance didn't immediately comment.
