NEW YORK (WBNG) — In recognition of Hunger Action Month and New York Climate Week, Governor Kathy Hochul announced a milestone for a program that helps feed New Yorkers while reducing pollution that contributes to climate change.

The Feeding New York State network reached a record 63 million-pound collection milestone, as part of an ongoing New York State Food Donation and Food Scraps Recycling Law.

Feeding New York sources food for New York food banks in several ways, including salvaging perfectly edible food that may be slightly damaged, such as cans or boxes with dents or superficial cosmetic damage.

The Food Donation and Food Scraps Recycling law helps reduce waste and climate-altering emissions caused by decomposing food in landfills.

According to the Law, starting Jan. 1, 2027, all businesses and institutions that generate an annual average of 1 ton of wasted food per week must:

• Donate excess edible food
• Recycle all remaining food scraps if they are within 50 miles of an organics recycling site.

Feeding New York also receives funding from the Department of Environmental Protection to encourage public participation and assist with food collection efforts.

Since 2018, the DEC has provided over $10 million in funding to the food banks.

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