Long Island Food Pantries See Decline in Immigrant Visitors Amid ICE Fears

LONG ISLAND – Long Island food banks and pantries are reporting a noticeable decline in the number of immigrants seeking food assistance, a trend that aid workers attribute to heightened fears of encounters with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

Organizations like Long Island Cares and Pronto of Long Island have seen a drop-off in clients who are a vital part of the communities they serve. Long Island Cares, which reports that 20% of its clientele are immigrants, has stated that many of its regular clients are not showing up due to fears of potential interactions with ICE agents. Similarly, Pronto of Long Island is observing the same issue, noting that even individuals with proper documentation are increasingly hesitant to visit.

This fear, aid workers say, is having a devastating impact on vulnerable families. Many are now struggling to find the food they need. Reverend Larry Duncklee of St. John the Evangelist Pantry in Riverhead, for example, reports that the number of families served weekly has plummeted from around 150 to just 10. Duncklee said that the sight of ICE agents in the vicinity of the pantry has scared people away.

The climate of fear is not limited to Long Island. Across New York City, faith-based shelters and food assistance programs are quietly adapting their operations. Some are posting signs to remind visitors that the spaces are private property and that ICE activity is not welcome without a proper warrant, a measure intended to provide a sense of security for those seeking help.

The current situation is reminiscent of past periods of increased immigration enforcement, when many immigrants withdrew from public benefit programs like SNAP, fearing that participation could make them a target. Now, with a general climate of fear pervading immigrant communities, a similar pattern is emerging, leaving food banks concerned about the well-being of the people they are designed to serve.

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