The Regional Foodbank of Northeastern New York Inc. of Albany has received $4.7 million as one of 45 food relief organization statewide that got a total of $36.5 million.

Governor Andrew Cuomo announced this week that $5.9 million has been awarded to seven emergency food relief organizations in the Capital Region through the Hunger Prevention and Nutrition Assistance Program, administered by the Department of Health.

Three other Albany County programs received funds: The Food Bank Association of New York State and the Trinity Alliance of the Capital Region Inc. each got $175,000, and Capital Roots Inc. received $231,461.

Overall, the state funding will benefit eight regional food banks and more than 2,600 food pantries and soup kitchens, which together provide more than 216 million meals a year to low-income New Yorkers.

Emergency food relief organizations serve as a safety net for people in need in New York. Although some individuals and families are eligible for federal food assistance, it is often not enough, and food pantries and soup kitchens operated by these organizations help fill the gap.

To ensure better nutrition, agencies receiving these awards are required to devote a portion of the funding to food identified as helpful in the prevention of chronic diseases, such as diabetes and obesity, according to a release from the governor’s office. These foods include low-fat milk and fresh vegetables and fruits.

In addition to providing food, the Hunger Prevention and Nutrition Assistance Program helps emergency food relief organizations provide clients with information on the benefits of healthy eating, strategies for healthy behaviors, and simple recipes that incorporate healthy foods. Many food banks and soup kitchens also offer monthly cooking workshops and food safety trainings to their clients.